Spicy Burrata Stuffed Shells in Garlic Tomato Sauce Recipe
Indulge in the creamy richness of burrata cheese combined with the zesty kick of crushed red pepper flakes in these Spicy Burrata Stuffed Shells. Paired with a homemade garlic tomato sauce, this dish is a comforting delight perfect for any occasion.
- Author: homebitesia
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 cup burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is hot and ready when it’s time to bake the stuffed shells.
- In a large pot of salted water, cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir gently to prevent them from sticking, and drain them once cooked. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to soften in the oven.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the garlic tomato sauce. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Add the can of crushed tomatoes to the skillet along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You’ll know it’s ready when it thickens slightly and the flavors are aromatic.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of burrata cheese, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil. Mix until well incorporated; the mixture should be creamy and vibrant.
- Once the pasta shells are cool enough to handle, carefully stuff each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. Set aside on a plate. If you have leftover filling, you can spoon it into the sauce for extra flavor.
- Spread a layer of the garlic tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, opening side up. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells, ensuring they are well covered.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the tops of the shells are slightly golden.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra fresh basil before serving. Enjoy the fusion of flavors and textures in each bite!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar while simmering. If burrata is not available, fresh mozzarella is a suitable substitute. When storing leftovers, save the shells and sauce separately if possible to maintain texture.