Cordon Bleu Stuffed Shells with Crispy Prosciutto – Indulge in the exquisite flavors of our Cordon Bleu Stuffed Shells with Crispy Prosciutto! This mouthwatering dish takes the classic concept of Cordon Bleu and transforms it into a delightful pasta creation. Imagine tender pasta shells filled with seasoned ground chicken, velvety Gruyere cheese sauce, and topped with a crispy prosciutto finish. It’s a culinary masterpiece that will elevate your dinner to new heights. Join us on a culinary adventure and discover why this recipe is a must-try for every food enthusiast.
In our little family, the Cordon Bleu Stuffed Shells with Crispy Prosciutto have become the epitome of comfort and luxury combined. It all started when my husband took his first bite and instantly fell in love. The flavors danced on his taste buds, and he couldn’t help but ask for more. Ever since that day, these stuffed shells have become a regular feature on our dinner table, creating a sense of warmth and togetherness with every bite. I remember the excitement in our daughter’s eyes as she eagerly devoured her portion, delighting in the creamy cheese sauce and the irresistible crunch of the prosciutto. It has truly become a cherished family favorite, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
Why This Recipe Will Win Your Heart?
- Delectable Flavor Combination: The combination of seasoned ground chicken, tangy Dijon, and rich Gruyere cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
- Gourmet Twist on Classic Comfort: This recipe takes the beloved Cordon Bleu concept and reinvents it with a pasta twist, adding a touch of elegance to a comforting dish.
- Creamy Gruyere Cheese Sauce: The velvety Gruyere cheese sauce envelops each shell, infusing it with luxurious creaminess and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Perfectly Crispy Prosciutto: The crispy prosciutto topping adds a delightful texture and a savory note, balancing the richness of the dish.
- Simple Yet Impressive: While this recipe may sound elaborate, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Impress your loved ones with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 9 large pasta shells
- ½ lb. ground chicken (225g)
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 1¼ cups whole milk
- 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 1½ cups shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
- Fresh chives (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bring a large stock pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until they reach a slightly al dente texture. Once cooked, remove the shells from the pot and set them aside to cool.
In a skillet preheated over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, ground chicken, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink, approximately five minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and stir until a roux forms. Gradually add the milk while continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.
Remove the skillet from the heat and add the cooked ground chicken, 1 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Spray an 8×5 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Take approximately one tablespoon of the chicken filling and stuff it inside each pasta shell. Repeat this process until all shells have been filled, using any remaining filling as desired.
Top the stuffed shells with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake it for about 25 minutes.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh chives and the crispy prosciutto.
Notes:
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses if Gruyere is not available. Swiss or Emmental cheese make good alternatives.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground chicken with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
- Make sure to cook the prosciutto until it is crispy for the best texture and flavor.
Indulging in the irresistible flavors of Cordon Bleu Stuffed Shells with Crispy Prosciutto is a culinary experience that will leave you craving more. This delectable dish combines the comfort of stuffed shells with the elegance of Cordon Bleu, resulting in a remarkable fusion of flavors. Each bite is a harmonious blend of tender pasta, seasoned ground chicken, velvety Gruyere cheese sauce, and the satisfying crunch of crispy prosciutto. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply treat your family to a special meal, these stuffed shells are the perfect choice.
The joy of creating this recipe lies not only in its exceptional taste but also in the memories it brings to life. As you gather around the table, sharing laughter and stories, the aroma of this dish fills the air, creating an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness. The Cordon Bleu Stuffed Shells with Crispy Prosciutto have the power to turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary adventure.
So, gather your loved ones, embrace the joy of cooking, and let the flavors of this recipe transport you to a world of culinary delight. Discover the magic that happens when comfort meets sophistication and create unforgettable moments around the table. Treat yourself to the exceptional taste of Cordon Bleu Stuffed Shells with Crispy Prosciutto, and let every bite tell a story of love, flavor, and togetherness.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, simply pop them in the oven and enjoy a convenient and delicious meal.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells. After baking, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in the oven until heated through.
What can I serve with Cordon Bleu Stuffed Shells?
These shells are quite satisfying on their own, but you can enhance your meal by serving them with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. The vibrant colors and flavors will complement the richness of the dish.
Can I substitute the ground chicken with another meat?
Certainly! If you prefer a different meat, such as ground turkey or pork, feel free to make the substitution. Just ensure it is cooked thoroughly before incorporating it into the filling.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta shells and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Be sure to check the labels of other ingredients for any hidden sources of gluten.
Cordon Bleu Stuffed Shells with Crispy Prosciutto
Ingredients
- 9 large pasta shells
- ½ lb. ground chicken 225g
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 1¼ cups whole milk
- 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 1½ cups shredded Gruyere cheese divided
- Fresh chives for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bring a large stock pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until they reach a slightly al dente texture. Once cooked, remove the shells from the pot and set them aside to cool.
- In a skillet preheated over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, ground chicken, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink, approximately five minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and stir until a roux forms. Gradually add the milk while continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and add the cooked ground chicken, 1 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Spray an 8x5 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Take approximately one tablespoon of the chicken filling and stuff it inside each pasta shell. Repeat this process until all shells have been filled, using any remaining filling as desired.
- Top the stuffed shells with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake it for about 25 minutes.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh chives and the crispy prosciutto.
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