Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo: Amazing Dinner

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Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells have become my go-to weeknight meal when I crave something comforting yet surprisingly healthy. I still remember the first time I made them for a family dinner; the aroma of baked pasta, savory zucchini, and fragrant herbs filled my kitchen, and everyone’s eyes lit up. The creamy ricotta and mozzarella filling, nestled inside perfectly cooked jumbo shells and baked in a rich marinara, is pure bliss. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing vegetarian option, this herb zucchini stuffed jumbo shells bake is an absolute winner. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells

This dish is a winner for so many reasons! You’ll adore the incredible flavor combination of savory zucchini, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs baked to perfection. It’s surprisingly quick to prepare, making it a perfect easy herb zucchini jumbo stuffed shells option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients, offering a healthier alternative to some pasta dishes. This zucchini stuffed jumbo pasta shells recipe is also incredibly budget-friendly, using common pantry staples. The best part? It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour. It’s a delightful way to enjoy Italian-inspired comfort food!

Ingredients for Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful jumbo pasta shells herb zucchini filling:

12 jumbo pasta shells – the perfect vehicle for our delicious filling
1 medium zucchini, finely chopped – choose a firm one for the best texture
1 cup ricotta cheese – this provides our creamy base
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, melty goodness
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty depth
1 large egg – helps bind the filling together
1 teaspoon dried oregano – classic Italian herb flavor
1 teaspoon dried basil – complements the oregano beautifully
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – for a hint of savory garlic
Salt and pepper to taste – essential for balancing flavors
2 cups marinara sauce – your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce

How to Make Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a nice hot oven for baking.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. You want them tender but with a slight bite. Drain them carefully and set them aside to cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.
Step 3: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped, and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it’s tender and just starting to turn golden. The kitchen will start to smell wonderfully savory!
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Add the sautéed zucchini to the cheese mixture. Stir everything gently until it’s all well combined. This creates your flavorful filling for the jumbo shells.
Step 6: Gently open each cooled jumbo shell. Carefully spoon or pipe the zucchini and cheese mixture into each shell. Don’t overstuff them, but make sure they’re nicely filled.
Step 7: Spread about half of the 2 cups marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the shells from sticking and adds extra flavor.
Step 8: Carefully arrange the filled shells seam-side up on top of the sauce. This arrangement helps keep the filling inside as they bake. These zucchini and herb stuffed jumbo shells instructions are key to a beautiful presentation.
Step 9: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the tops of the shells, making sure they are well coated.
Step 10: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This steams the shells and allows the flavors to meld.
Step 11: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible!

Pro Tips for the Best Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Want to elevate your pasta game? Follow these tips for truly exceptional herb zucchini jumbo shells:

Don’t overcook your jumbo shells; al dente is key to preventing them from falling apart when stuffing and baking.
Squeeze out excess moisture from the cooked zucchini before adding it to the cheese mixture. This prevents a watery filling.
Use a piping bag or a sturdy zip-top bag with the corner snipped off to fill the shells neatly.
Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives to the filling for an extra burst of freshness.

What’s the secret to perfect Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells?

The secret lies in a well-balanced filling and proper shell texture. Achieving the best herb zucchini jumbo shells recipe involves not overcooking the shells and ensuring the zucchini is tender but not mushy. A good ratio of creamy cheese to tender zucchini is crucial for flavor and texture. For more information on pasta cooking techniques, check out our recipes section.

Can I make Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! The herb zucchini jumbo shells preparation can be done a day in advance. Stuff and assemble the shells in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. Learn more about our culinary philosophy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells?

A common pitfall is overcooking the pasta shells, making them difficult to stuff. Another mistake is a watery filling; ensure you sauté and drain the zucchini well. Finally, don’t skip the foil during the initial baking to allow the shells to steam and cook through evenly. Understanding cooking best practices can help.

Best Ways to Serve Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells

These delightful herb zucchini stuffed jumbo shells are hearty enough to be the star of your meal, but they pair beautifully with a few simple sides. For a classic Italian touch, serve them alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. A side of crusty garlic bread is also perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli complements the richness of the shells wonderfully. These jumbo shells stuffed with zucchini and herbs are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a more festive gathering. Explore more delicious meal ideas.

Nutrition Facts for Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving for this delicious dish:

Calories: 350
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 620mg
Cholesterol: 50mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your herb zucchini stuffed jumbo shells. For more details on ingredient sourcing, see our About Us page.

How to Store and Reheat Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Leftovers of these delicious herb zucchini stuffed jumbo shells are a treat! Once they’ve cooled down completely, transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. They make for a fantastic and quick herb zucchini jumbo shells dinner the next day, just needing a quick reheat!

If you want to save them for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions or the entire dish securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They should stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option for a faster reheat, just cover and heat in 1-2 minute intervals until warm. You can find more tips on food storage at our contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells

What are herb zucchini stuffed jumbo shells?

These are a delightful pasta dish featuring large jumbo shells generously filled with a savory mixture of chopped zucchini, creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, and a blend of aromatic herbs like oregano and basil. They are then baked in a flavorful marinara sauce until the cheese is bubbly and golden. It’s a comforting and satisfying Italian-inspired meal.

Are herb zucchini stuffed jumbo shells healthy?

Yes, they can be considered a relatively healthy herb zucchini stuffed jumbo shells option, especially when compared to some other pasta dishes. They are packed with vegetables (zucchini) and protein from the cheeses and egg. Choosing a good quality marinara sauce with lower sodium and sugar content can further enhance their health profile. The vegetarian nature also makes them a great choice for many diets. Learn about our privacy policy for more information.

Can I make herb zucchini stuffed jumbo shells vegan?

While this specific recipe is vegetarian, you can absolutely adapt it to be a vegan herb zucchini jumbo shells recipe! You would substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) instead of a regular egg, and ensure your marinara sauce is vegan-friendly. The zucchini and herb flavors will still shine through beautifully.

What kind of zucchini works best for stuffed shells?

For the best results when making your jumbo shells stuffed with zucchini and herbs, it’s best to use medium-sized, firm zucchini. They tend to have fewer seeds and a better texture when chopped and sautéed. Avoid very large, overgrown zucchini, as they can be watery and have a less pleasant texture in the filling.

Variations of Herb Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the zucchini mixture. Sauté them with the zucchini for a delightful flavor infusion.
Dietary Adaptations: For a fully vegan herb zucchini jumbo shells recipe, swap the ricotta and mozzarella for your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives, use a flax egg, and ensure your marinara is vegan. If you need a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free jumbo shells.
Cheese Exploration: Experiment with different cheeses! Goat cheese adds a lovely tang, while a sprinkle of smoked mozzarella can give a deeper, richer flavor. This is a great way to personalize your vegetarian herb zucchini jumbo shells.
Different Sauces: While marinara is classic, a creamy Alfredo sauce or even a pesto base can offer a delicious twist on this dish. Adjust seasonings accordingly to complement the new sauce.