Ham-Stuffed Jumbo Shells
This chef-curated Ham-Stuffed Jumbo Shells offers an authentic, wholesome dining experience. Created by Chief Culinary Specialist Stewart Lucas, it balances vibrant flavor with evidence-based nutrition.
Key Takeaways
- ✓Ready in just 30 mins using straightforward, kitchen-tested technique.
- ✓Delivers 22g of muscle-fueling protein per serving for lasting satiety.
- ✓Portion-balanced at 458 calories per serving with wholesome, unrefined ingredients.
- ✓Masterclass temperature checkpoints ensure maximum tenderness and flavor development.
The Story
This chef-curated Ham-Stuffed Jumbo Shells offers an authentic, wholesome dining experience. Created by Chief Culinary Specialist Stewart Lucas, it balances vibrant flavor with evidence-based nutrition.
Culinary Heritage & Chef's Notes
In the NutriGuide test kitchen, Chief Culinary Specialist Stewart Lucas refined this classic Ham-Stuffed Jumbo Shells to celebrate vibrant, wholesome ingredients. By prioritizing aromatic layering and precise thermal control, this recipe achieves remarkable culinary depth while preserving natural micronutrients and wholesome texture.
At NutriGuide, our mission is to ensure that home cooking is both accessible and culinary-grade. When executing Ham-Stuffed Jumbo Shells, focus on fresh aromatics, dry surface contact for proper searing, and allowing the food to rest before serving.
Ingredients & Measurements
- 24 jumbo pasta shells
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 1/2 pound fresh mushrooms,
- halved and sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 3 cups cubed fully cooked lean
- ham
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat Swiss
- cheese, divided
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- cheese
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh
- parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Chef's Sourcing & Quality Tips:
- Produce & Aromatics: Always use fresh whole aromatics and seasonal herbs rather than dehydrated powders when possible.
- Cooking Oils: Utilize cold-pressed oils with appropriate smoke points such as extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil.
- Salt & Seasoning: Season from a modest height above the pan to ensure an even, uniform crystalline dispersion.
Step-by-Step Culinary Masterclass
Follow these sequential steps with careful attention to sensory cues and cooking temperatures:
Step 1: Technique & Execution
Cook pasta according to package directionsStep 2: Technique & Execution
Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine flour and milk until smoothStep 3: Technique & Execution
Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickenedStep 4: Technique & Execution
Remove from the heat; set asideStep 5: Technique & Execution
In a large nonstick skillet, saute the mushrooms, onion and green pepper in oil until tenderStep 6: Technique & Execution
Reduce heat; add the ham, 1/2 cup Swiss cheese and Parmesan cheeseChef's Pro Tips & Variations
Nutritional Profile per Serving
| Metric | Amount | Dietary Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 458 kcal | Controlled caloric load for steady metabolic burn |
| Protein | 22g | High-biological-value protein for tissue maintenance |
| Carbohydrates | 27g | Complex, slow-digesting dietary fiber |
| Fat | 10g | Wholesome dietary lipids for micronutrient absorption |
Ham-Stuffed Jumbo Shells
This chef-curated Ham-Stuffed Jumbo Shells offers an authentic, wholesome dining experience. Created by Chief Culinary Specialist Stewart Lucas, it balances vibrant flavor with evidence-based nutrition.
Macro Nutrition Profile (Per Serving)
Ingredients
Ingredient Substitutions
| Original Ingredient | Healthy Alternative |
|---|---|
| Animal protein | Firm tofu, tempeh, or organic chickpeas |
| Cooking fat | Extra virgin olive oil or grass-fed butter |
Instructions
Technique & Execution: Cook pasta according to package directions
Technique & Execution: Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine flour and milk until smooth
Technique & Execution: Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened
Technique & Execution: Remove from the heat; set aside
Technique & Execution: In a large nonstick skillet, saute the mushrooms, onion and green pepper in oil until tender
Technique & Execution: Reduce heat; add the ham, 1/2 cup Swiss cheese and Parmesan cheese
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it turned out! Click a star below to leave a review and rate the recipe.
Storage & Freezing Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Heat in a saucepan or skillet on medium heat until hot throughout.
- Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen or after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this recipe be prepared ahead of time?▼
Yes, this meal is excellent for weekly meal prep. Store components separately and assemble before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?▼
All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. If you are highly sensitive, verify that packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Tried this recipe?
Tag @stewartlucas on Instagram and hashtag it #nutriguide!
You Might Also Like
Stewart Lucas
Chief Culinary SpecialistStewart Lucas is the Chief Culinary Specialist and lead recipe developer representing the NutriGuide team. All recipes, nutritional values, and culinary techniques published on this site are kitchen-tested and medically reviewed by certified dietitians and clinical nutrition professionals to guarantee absolute accuracy and culinary excellence.
Community Reviews
Please log in to leave a review.