Pasta Shell

Triticum aestivum (for durum wheat semolina) Pasta

Pasta Shell Pasta

At a Glance

  • Category Pasta

The Forktionary Angle

"The ingenious pasta shape designed to cradle and deliver maximum sauce in every bite."

Definition

A type of pasta characterized by its concave, shell-like shape, ideal for holding sauces or for stuffing, commonly made from durum wheat semolina.

Ideal Use Creamy sauces, baking, stuffing
Italian Name Conchiglie
Primary Ingredient Durum Wheat Semolina

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Pasta Shell are:

Neutral (absorbs sauce flavors) Starchy

Chef’s Secret

When making stuffed shells, slightly undercook them before stuffing and baking; they will finish cooking in the oven, preventing them from becoming mushy.

Best Substitutes

Orecchiette

for cupping sauce
Ratio 1:1

Lumaconi

larger shells for stuffing
Ratio 1:1

Macaroni

for general use, less dramatic shape
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for 100% durum wheat semolina for best texture; check for consistent shape and absence of broken pieces.

Recipes Using Pasta Shell

Tomatoes Italian Vegetarian Tomatoes

Artichoke Spinach Feta Stuffed Shells

Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor! This Artichoke Spinach Feta Stuffed Shells recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Inspired by a Cooking Light recipe from December 2006, this updated version features precise measurements and simple instructions for perfectly baked stuffed shells every time. Enjoy this comforting and delicious meal!

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Kid Friendly Savory Inexpensive Taste Mood

Bean And Cabbage Soup

This comforting Bean and Cabbage Soup recipe is incredibly versatile and packed with flavor! Use any beans you love – white kidney beans are our favorite, but feel free to experiment. Customize it with leftover chicken or turkey for extra protein, and enjoy with crusty bread for dipping in the delicious broth. This recipe is easy to make, perfect for a chilly evening, and sure to become a family favorite!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains Pasta

12 Cheese Stuffed Shells

Say goodbye to bland, frozen stuffed shells! This recipe delivers cheesy, comforting perfection that will become your new go-to. Loaded with a creamy 12-cheese blend and baked to bubbly perfection, these stuffed shells are a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to impress. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Course Sandwiches Course Dietary

Italian Gut Busters

These Italian Gut Busters are a family favorite, exploding with flavor! A little messy to make, but totally worth the effort – get a helper and prepare for a delicious, unforgettable meal. This recipe yields [Yield, e.g., 12 servings] and takes about 45 minutes to cook. Perfect for a family get-together or a fun weekend cooking project!

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Pasta Preparation Main Dish 4 Hours Or Less

3 Cheese Beef Stuffed Shells

Indulge in these cheesy, meaty 3 Cheese Beef Stuffed Shells! A family favorite recipe passed down from a friend, this comforting dish is packed with flavor and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for layers of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, all wrapped in tender jumbo pasta shells and baked to golden perfection.

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Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient Preparation

Basil Stuffed Shells

Craveable basil stuffed shells bursting with creamy ricotta, parmesan, and fresh basil, baked to perfection in a rich tomato sauce. This easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Course Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient Pasta

Baked Pasta With Tomato Cream And Five Cheeses

Indulge in this decadent Baked Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce and Five Cheeses! Inspired by Martha Stewart Living, this comforting dish is surprisingly quick to make. Perfect as a sophisticated appetizer or a satisfying main course (simply add grilled chicken or sausage and a fresh salad). The creamy tomato sauce, bursting with flavor, is layered with five incredible cheeses for an unforgettable taste experience. Get ready for bubbly, cheesy goodness in just 25 minutes!

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Preparation Main Dish Dietary Main Ingredient

Almost Instant Pierogies

Craving pierogies but short on time? These Almost Instant Pierogies from Gooseberry Patch are ready in under an hour! Skip the hours of rolling dough and enjoy a comforting, cheesy potato filling baked to perfection. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal.

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Main Dish Eggs Dairy Main Ingredient Seasonal

Baked Shells With Pesto Mozzarella And Meat Sauce

A mouthwatering one-pan pasta bake! Creamy pesto, melted mozzarella, and rich meat sauce combine with perfectly cooked jumbo shells for a comforting and flavorful meal. Inspired by Food & Wine's one-dish meals, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.

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Course Low Cholesterol Low In Something Time To Make

Bean And Pasta Soup

A hearty and flavorful bean and pasta soup, inspired by a classic Campbell's recipe! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal and is packed with fresh vegetables and protein. Get ready for a comforting bowl of deliciousness in under 45 minutes!

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60 Minutes Or Less Pasta Shells Equipment Savory

Baked Stuffed Pasta Shells

Experience the irresistible taste of authentic Italian comfort food with our Baked Stuffed Pasta Shells! This crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress. Tender pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy cheese mixture and smothered in rich spaghetti sauce. Easy to make, yet bursting with flavor, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal!

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Pasta Shells Presentation Course Thanksgiving

Amazing Crab Stuffed Pasta Shells

Craving a decadent and impressive Easter dinner? These Amazing Crab Stuffed Pasta Shells are the answer! I perfected this recipe by combining the best elements from 10 different recipes, resulting in a dish that's incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Each jumbo pasta shell is brimming with a creamy blend of crab, shrimp, and scallions, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. Pro-tip: Consider using smaller pasta shells for easier portion control, or simply cut the larger ones in half before serving – these are incredibly filling!

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Vegetarian Taste Mood Equipment European

Artichoke Pasta Casserole

This easy and tasty Artichoke Pasta Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with the flavors of artichoke hearts, mushrooms, and herbs, this comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Get ready to enjoy a delicious meal in under an hour!

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Main Ingredient Course 60 Minutes Or Less Pasta

Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Shells

A cheesy, comforting classic! This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Shells recipe is a foolproof way to get even the pickiest eaters to gobble up their greens. Tender pasta shells are brimming with a creamy ricotta and broccoli filling, then smothered in rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. A Taste of Home favorite, made even better!

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Presentation Inexpensive Brunch Served Hot

Big Pasta Stuffed Shells

Experience cheesy, meaty bliss with these incredibly easy Big Pasta Stuffed Shells! Our creamy ricotta filling, perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells, and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce (recipe #106003 – try it!) will have your family begging for seconds. This recipe is surprisingly simple – even if boiling water is your biggest culinary skill! Get ready for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Pasta North American Inexpensive Course

Baked Sausage Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells

A Canadian Living-inspired recipe that's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! These jumbo pasta shells are generously stuffed with a savory sausage and vegetable filling, then baked to golden perfection with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. A comforting and flavourful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion appetizer. This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences, so feel free to experiment with different seasonings!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Salads Cuisine Occasion

Avocado Caesar Pasta Salad

Creamy avocado Caesar dressing coats perfectly cooked pasta and crisp romaine lettuce in this vibrant and refreshing pasta salad. A crowd-pleaser any time of year, this recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavor! Get ready for rave reviews!

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Main Dish To Go Pasta Shells Main Ingredient

Bbq Stuffed Shells

Get ready to be amazed! These BBQ Stuffed Shells are a unique and surprisingly delicious twist on a classic. Perfectly tender jumbo pasta shells are brimming with a flavorful BBQ-infused filling, then baked to bubbly perfection. A crowd-pleasing side dish for your next potluck or BBQ, or a hearty main course alongside potato salad and baked beans. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this unexpected culinary delight!

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