Description
Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells with Whipped Ricotta is a delightful twist on traditional stuffed pasta. This easy-to-make dish combines spicy Italian chicken sausage with fresh herbs and creamy whipped ricotta, delivering an explosion of flavors in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it requires minimal prep and uses pantry staples, making it both convenient and satisfying. In just 30 minutes, you can impress your family or guests with this flavorful meal that serves six hearty portions. Enjoy all the classic tastes of stuffed shells without the hassle of filling each one individually!
Ingredients
- 1 pound jumbo pasta shells
- 1/2 pound ground spicy Italian chicken sausage
- 3 shallots
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 (14 ounce) can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- 2 cups chopped greens (kale, spinach, etc.)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- Fresh basil and lemon zest
Instructions
- Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente; reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, brown the sausage, then add shallots and garlic until caramelized.
- Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes; simmer to thicken.
- Mix in greens until wilted; combine with cooked pasta and half the basil.
- Serve over whipped ricotta, drizzled with basil lemon sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 482
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 68mg
Keywords: Use high-quality ingredients for enhanced flavor. Feel free to customize with seasonal greens or other proteins like turkey sausage. For an extra creamy texture, whip the ricotta before serving.