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French Onion Stuffed Shells

French Onion Stuffed Shells

French Onion Stuffed Shells are a comforting twist on the classic soup, filled with caramelized onions and creamy cheeses.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Cozy Dinners
Cuisine: French
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Filling
  • 2 large sweet onions choose large ones for maximum flavor
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter helps caramelize the onions
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt enhances sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper adds mild heat
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme complements the onions
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese creamy base; can use cottage cheese
  • 1 large egg acts as a binder
  • 1 cup gruyere cheese lends a nutty flavor
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese adds depth
  • 1 tablespoon flour thickens the mixture
Sauce
  • 2 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock for vegetarian
  • 1/2 cup cream enhances richness
Topping
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese for melting
  • 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs adds crunch
  • fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Baking Dish
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Caramelize the onions: In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2 large sweet onions and cook, stirring frequently, until soft and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Season the onions: Once caramelized, add kosher salt, black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 beaten egg, 1 cup of grated gruyere, 1/2 cup of grated parmesan, and 1 tablespoon of flour. Stir until well incorporated.
  4. Fill the shells: Gently take 12 jumbo shells and stuff with the ricotta mixture, ensuring they are packed but not bursting.
  5. Prepare the sauce: In a baking dish, combine 2 cups of chicken stock, 1/2 cup of cream, and season with additional kosher salt and black pepper. Mix well.
  6. Arrange the stuffed shells: Place shells in the baking dish on top of the sauce. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs over the top.
  7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure onions are caramelized slowly to maximize sweetness. Mix filling thoroughly to avoid runniness. Let stuffed shells rest before serving.

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