Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance, and for good reason. They allow you to cook your favorite foods in a healthier and more convenient way. In this article, we will explore how to cook stuffed shells in an air fryer, a tasty and time-saving recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin cooking, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need the following:
– Jumbo pasta shells
– Ricotta cheese
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
– Grated Parmesan cheese
– Spinach (fresh or frozen)
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Dried basil
– Salt and pepper
– Marinara sauce
Preparing the Filling
To start, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Filling the Shells
Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cooked shell with the cheese and spinach filling mixture. Be sure to pack them tightly so they don’t fall apart during the cooking process. Once filled, place the stuffed shells on a plate or tray.
Preparing the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, you can start preparing the shells for cooking.
– Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
– Arrange the filled shells in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other.
– Place the basket in the air fryer and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the shells are golden brown on the outside and heated through.
Serving the Stuffed Shells
Once the stuffed shells are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Serve them hot with your favorite marinara sauce. You can also sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Benefits of Using an Air Fryer
Cooking stuffed shells in an air fryer has several benefits. Firstly, using an air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed for cooking, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. The hot air circulation in the air fryer allows the shells to become crispy without the need for excessive oil.
Secondly, cooking stuffed shells in an air fryer is a time-saving option. The air fryer cooks the shells quickly and evenly, allowing you to enjoy your tasty meal in a fraction of the time it would take in a conventional oven.
Additionally, an air fryer is easy to use and clean. Most air fryers come with pre-set cooking functions and temperature controls, making it simple even for beginners to achieve delicious results. The removable parts of the air fryer are usually dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning up a breeze.
Alternative Fillings
While the traditional cheese and spinach filling is delicious, you can get creative and try out different fillings for your stuffed shells in the air fryer. Here are a few ideas:
– Ground beef and ricotta cheese
– Shredded chicken, black beans, and corn
– Sausage and mushroom
– Vegan option: Tofu ricotta cheese and chopped vegetables
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find the perfect filling for your stuffed shells.
Conclusion
Cooking stuffed shells in an air fryer is a tasty and time-saving recipe that anyone can enjoy. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a delicious meal in no time. Whether you stick with the classic cheese and spinach filling or venture into alternative options, the air fryer delivers a crispy and flavorful result every time. So why not give it a try and make stuffed shells in your air fryer for your next family dinner or gathering? You won’t be disappointed!