What to Serve with Stuffed Shells ( 25 Side Dishes You’ll Love)

If you’re anything like me, you probably have a love-hate relationship with stuffed shells.

On one hand, they’re undeniably delicious. Who can resist cheesy pasta shells stuffed with your favorite fillings?

On the other hand, they can be a bit of a challenge to pair with the right side dishes.

Finding good side dishes to serve with stuffed shells can be tricky, especially online. It seems like every time you search for “stuffed shells recipes,” the only results that come up are variations on the classic dish itself.

That’s why I decided to share this article with a list of side dishes that I’ve tried over the last few months. These recipes are all easy to make and pair well with stuffed shells.

So, what are you waiting for? Scroll down and check out these delicious side dishes!

Sides for Stuffed Shells

1. Green Beans
2. Broccoli Alfredo
3. Garlic Bread
4. Steamed Rice
5. Roasted Asparagus
6. Bruschetta
7. Roasted Root Vegetables
8. Baked Potatoes
9. Garlic Knots
10. Dinner Rolls
11. Roasted Broccoli
12. Zucchini Fries
13. Ravioli
14. Salad
15. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Green Beans

One great way to complement the flavors of stuffed shells is to serve stuffed shells with green beans. The bright green color of the beans provides a beautiful contrast to the rich red of the tomato sauce, and the slightly sweet flavor complements the savory stuffing perfectly. Whether you’re serving up stuffed shells as the main course or as a side dish, green beans are a delicious way to round out the meal.

Broccoli Alfredo

One of my favorite dishes to make is stuffed shells with broccoli alfredo. The shells are filled with a rich, cheesy filling, and the broccoli alfredo adds a delicious creamy element.

I like to garnish it with some fresh parsley and serve it with some garlic bread. This dish is always a hit at dinner parties, and it’s easy to make ahead of time so that you can enjoy it with your guests.

Garlic Bread

There’s nothing quite like the smell of garlic bread wafting from the oven. The simple combination of bread and garlic is irresistible, and it’s one of the most versatile dishes around. Even if you’re serving it as a side dish with stuffed shells, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this classic recipe.

While it’s easy to find jarred garlic bread at the grocery store, there’s nothing quite like homemade. And with an easy recipe, you can have freshly-baked garlic bread on the table in no time. Simply slice a loaf of French bread in half lengthwise, spread on a generous amount of garlic butter, and bake until golden brown. It’s that easy!

Steamed Rice

Steamed rice is a staple dish in many cultures around the world. It is simple to make, yet endlessly versatile. Whether you are using white, brown, or black rice, the basic method is the same.

First, rinse the rice in cold water to remove any excess starch. Then, add the rice to a pot with twice as much water and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is cooked through. Fluff with a fork and serve.

Steamed rice can be enjoyed on its own or as a side with stuffed shells. With so many possibilities, it’s no wonder that steamed rice is a global favorite.

Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus is a delicious and healthy vegetable that can be enjoyed year-round. To prepare asparagus, simply trim the woody ends and roast in the oven at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes.

It is a versatile side dish that can be served as a side dish with stuffed shells. But it is also excellent on its own, topped with a little parmesan cheese or lemon juice.

Bruschetta

If you’re looking for a delicious side dish to accompany your stuffed shells, look no further than bruschetta. This classic Italian dish is simple to prepare and is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover bread you might have lying around.

To make bruschetta, simply toast some bread and top it with diced tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. Add a little salt and pepper to taste, and you’re good to go. So go ahead and give this easy recipe a try the next time you’re in the mood for something truly special.

Roasted Root Vegetables

 

Root vegetables such as turnips, carrots, and potatoes are roasted in the oven until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Then, they are mixed with ricotta cheese and spinach. The result is a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy even the most hearty appetite.

The next time you’re in the mood for something different with your stuffed shells, give roasted root vegetables a try. Also, they can make the perfect stuffing for your next batch of stuffed shells.

Baked Potatoes

While many people consider baked potatoes to be a humble side dish, I believe that they are a culinary powerhouse. Not only do they add a delicious filling to stuffed shells, but they also provide a much-needed dose of carbohydrates.

In addition, the high temperature of the oven helps to caramelize the potatoes, giving them a beautiful golden color. When paired with a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, baked potatoes make an ideal side dish for stuffed shells.

Garlic Knots

With their crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, garlic knots are the perfect complement to any meal. But they’re also extraordinarily versatile. Especially when you’re serving them with stuffed shells, garlic knots are always a hit.

But wait, there’s more! Not only are garlic knots delicious, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. You can have them on the table in just minutes. So look no further than garlic knots. Trust me, they’ll be gone before you know it.

Dinner Rolls

Serve your stuffed shells with a side of dinner rolls and you’ve got a meal that is sure to please. The dinner rolls will soak up all the delicious sauce and flavors from the stuffed shells, making each bite even more savory.

Plus, their fluffy texture makes them the perfect contrast to the creamy filling of the shells. Next time you’re planning a dinner party, don’t forget to add dinner rolls to your menu.

Roasted Broccoli

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy side dish to accompany your stuffed shells, look no further than roasted broccoli. This simple recipe only requires a few ingredients and can be on the table in under 30 minutes. Plus, roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness, making it a hit.

Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cut one head of broccoli into florets and spread them out on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is slightly charred around the edges.
5. Serve alongside your stuffed shells and enjoy!

Zucchini Fries

Zucchini fries are a delicious and healthy side dish that goes perfect with stuffed shells. To make them, simply cut zucchini into fry-sized pieces, coat in a batter of your choice, and then bake or fry until crispy. You can serve them with a dipping sauce or simply enjoy them as is.

They are also a great way to get your kids to eat their vegetables and are also a healthier alternative to traditional french fries.

Ravioli

Most people think of ravioli as a main dish, but it can also make a delicious and easy side dish. It is a type of Italian pasta that is made by wrapping dough around a filling, such as cheese or meat. The dough is then sealed, and the ravioli are cooked in boiling water.

Stuffed shells and ravioli, both dishes can be served with tomato sauce or another type of pasta sauce. While stuffed shells are more commonly served as a main dish, ravioli makes an excellent side dish because it is smaller and easier to eat.

Salad

If you’re looking for a light and healthy side dish to accompany your stuffed shells, look no further than a simple salad. A green salad is a perfect way to add some color and freshness to your plate, and it pairs well with the rich and creamy flavors of the pasta.

Plus, it’s an easy dish to throw together – all you need is some vegetables of your choice such as lettuce, tomatoes, and dressing.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

The classic Italian dish of stuffed shells is often served with a side of plain pasta, but why not switch things up and serve it with a flavorful side of garlic mashed potatoes?

The richness of the garlic pairs perfectly with the stuffed shells, and the potatoes provide a filling and satisfying side dish. So be sure to include a batch of garlic mashed potatoes on the side the next time you make some stuffed shells. Your taste buds will thank you!

Other Popular Side Dishes

• Macaroni and Cheese
• Mashed Cauliflower
• Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
• Pea Pesto on Toasted Baguette
• Cheese and Cauliflower Breadsticks
• Stuffed Tomatoes
• Cucumber Salad
• Whole Roasted Carrots

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people will one batch of stuffed shells serve?

One batch of stuffed shells will usually serve six people.

What type of cheese is best for stuffed shells?

The most common types of cheese used for stuffed shells are ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. However, you can use any type of cheese that you prefer.

Can stuffed shells be made ahead of time?

Yes, stuffed shells can be made ahead of time. They can be cooked and then refrigerated for a few days or frozen for up to a month. When you’re ready to serve them, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Is tomato sauce necessary for stuffed shells?

Tomato sauce is not necessary for stuffed shells, but it is a popular accompaniment. Some people prefer to serve their stuffed shells with a simple tomato sauce, while others enjoy using a more complex pasta sauce. However, the dish can be enjoyed without sauce if desired.

Conclusion

When it comes to what to serve with stuffed shells, the options are endless. You can go with a simple side salad, garlic mashed potatoes, or even just some plain pasta.

However, if you’re looking for something a little more flavorful and Italian-inspired, we recommend trying out any one of our suggested combinations mentioned above.

So try out serving these side dishes today and start impressing your guests.