Does Barilla make gluten-free shells?

Barilla is an Italian food company known for its pasta products. Many people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance wonder if Barilla offers any gluten-free pasta options so they can still enjoy the taste and texture of traditional pasta. In particular, gluten-free shells would provide an alternative to traditional stuffed shells, which are a popular dish. This article will provide a quick answer upfront before diving into more details – Yes, Barilla does make gluten-free pasta shells. They offer both jumbo and medium sized shells made with corn and rice flour instead of wheat.

About Celiac Disease and Gluten-Free Diets

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the small intestine when gluten is ingested. Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, following a strict lifelong gluten-free diet is important to manage symptoms and prevent further damage.

Some common symptoms of celiac disease include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Bloating
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue

Switching to a gluten-free diet allows the gut to heal and symptoms to improve for those sensitive to gluten. Gluten-free substitutes for common food products like bread, pasta, and baked goods are now widely available in most grocery stores due to the rising popularity of gluten-free diets.

While gluten-free products were once considered niche items, improvements in taste and texture have led to more mainstream adoption of quality gluten-free foods. According to Statista, gluten-free food sales are expected to reach $7.5 billion globally by 2027. The demand makes it important for popular food brands like Barilla to offer gluten-free versions of their products.

Barilla’s Gluten-Free Pasta Options

Barilla has responded to the rise in gluten-free diets by developing a line of gluten-free pasta. Barilla Gluten Free Pasta uses corn and rice flour instead of wheat flour to craft the noodles. They offer 4 types of gluten-free pasta shapes:

  • Penne
  • Elbows
  • Shells
  • Spaghetti

The gluten-free shells come in both medium and jumbo sizes. The pastas are designed to have a similar firm bite and texture to traditional wheat pasta when cooked al dente. This provides the familiar experience of eating shells for those who miss the traditional version.

In addition to being certified gluten-free, Barilla’s gluten-free pasta:

  • Is non-GMO
  • Is Kosher certified
  • Contains no cholesterol or trans fat

The gluten-free shells are made in a designated gluten-free facility to avoid cross-contamination with wheat. Barilla has strict protocols in place to keep the production process gluten-free.

To give their gluten-free pasta the traditional taste of Barilla wheat pasta, they use a proprietary blend of corn and rice flour. Gluten is necessary to give pasta the proper structure to boil and retain shape. To compensate for the lack of gluten, Barilla had to carefully develop the right balance of ingredients.

Barilla Gluten Free Pasta Shells deliver the al dente texture expected from the Barilla brand in a gluten-free option. Those with celiac disease and gluten intolerance can once again enjoy a classic Italian meal.

Nutrition Information for Barilla Gluten-Free Shells

When following a gluten-free diet, it’s important to pay close attention to nutrition labels. For those avoiding gluten due to celiac disease, cross-contamination with even trace amounts can trigger symptoms. Barilla Gluten Free Pasta is certified gluten-free to 20 parts per million. This strict standard provides comfort and assurance to those with celiac disease.

Here is the nutrition information for a standard 2 oz dry serving of Barilla gluten-free shells:

Nutrient Amount
Calories 200
Fat 0.5g
Sodium 0mg
Carbohydrates 42g
Fiber 2g
Sugar 2g
Protein 3g

The gluten-free shells offer a good source of fiber and protein. With 200 calories per serving, the shells are low in fat and sodium as well. The pasta provides an energizing carbohydrate source from gluten-free grains.

Those following a gluten-free diet often have to pay special attention to getting adequate fiber, since many gluten-free substitute products are low in fiber. The 2 grams of dietary fiber per serving of the gluten-free shells makes them a healthier gluten-free pasta choice.

Where to Buy Barilla Gluten-Free Pasta Shells

Barilla Gluten Free Pasta Shells are sold at many major grocery chains such as:

  • Walmart
  • Target
  • Kroger
  • Safeway
  • Publix
  • ShopRite
  • Stop & Shop

The gluten-free shells can typically be found in the specialty diet section, gluten-free aisle, or along with the other dry pasta varieties. The bright blue packaging helps identify Barilla’s gluten-free pasta offerings.

Barilla Gluten Free Shells have an MSRP of $2.69 for a 12 oz box, but pricing may vary by retailer. The gluten-free shells may cost slightly more than traditional wheat pasta. However, many retailers run promotions and sales that bring the price down. Digital coupons through the store’s app or website can also provide savings on the gluten-free shells.

For convenience, the shells can also be ordered online through services like Instacart and Amazon Fresh. This provides the option to have the gluten-free pasta delivered directly to your home.

Barilla offers a store locator on their website to help find local retailers that carry the gluten-free pasta shells. Availability may vary by location. Some stores may only stock certain shapes, while others provide the full gluten-free product line. Checking online inventory for local delivery or in-store pickup can help locate the gluten-free shells in your area before heading to the store.

How to Prepare Barilla Gluten-Free Shells

Gluten-free pasta can sometimes cook a little differently than traditional wheat pasta. Here are some tips for preparing Barilla Gluten-Free Shells:

– Use a large pot and cook shells in plenty of water – The shells need room to move around as they cook. Use at least 6 quarts of water per pound of gluten-free shells.

– Salt the cooking water – Adding 2 tablespoons of salt to the pot helps infuse flavor into the shells as they cook.

– Stir pasta occasionally – Gently stir the shells occasionally to prevent sticking, but avoid over-stirring which can damage the delicate gluten-free pasta.

– Cook al dente – Cook the shells according to the package time, testing doneness often to avoid overcooking. The shells should be cooked until just al dente, soft on the outside but with a slight firm bite in the center.

– Save pasta water – The starchy cooking water can be used to thin out sauces and add flavor. Save about 1/2 cup before draining shells.

– Avoid rinsing shells after draining – Rinsing can wash away starch on the outside of the pasta that helps sauces stick to the shells.

– Add sauce to hot pasta – Immediately add drained shells back to the hot pot and mix with desired sauce to allow the pasta to absorb flavor. Warm pasta soaks up more sauce than cold.

Following these cooking instructions helps ensure tender and flavorful gluten-free shells. The shells pair well with both meat and dairy-free sauces. Use them in your favorite stuffed shell recipe or mix with pesto, marinara, and alfredo. With a few minor adjustments, Barilla Gluten Free Shells can be substituted in any recipe calling for wheat pasta shells.

Gluten-Free Stuffed Shells Recipe

Here is a delicious recipe for gluten-free stuffed shells using Barilla Gluten Free Jumbo Shells:

Gluten-Free Stuffed Shells

Ingredients:
– 1 box Barilla Gluten Free Jumbo Shells, cooked al dente
– 15 oz ricotta cheese
– 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Cook jumbo shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta, spinach, parmesan, egg and Italian seasoning until thoroughly combined.

4. Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.

5. Use a spoon to stuff ricotta filling into each jumbo shell. Place stuffed shells seam-side down in the baking dish.

6. Cover shells with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top.

7. Bake for 25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

This recipe makes a delicious gluten-free version of classic stuffed shells that the whole family can enjoy. The gluten-free shells hold up well when stuffed and baked with flavorful fillings.

Serve with a side salad for a hearty Italian-style meal. Leftover shells can also be stored in the refrigerator for quick reheating during the week.

Customer Reviews of Barilla Gluten-Free Pasta

Here are a few reviews from real customers who have tried Barilla’s gluten-free pasta:

“I was so excited to find Barilla gluten-free shells at my grocery store. I used to love making stuffed shells before I had to go gluten-free. The Barilla shells have a great texture and hold up well when stuffed and baked. My family could barely tell they weren’t regular pasta.”

“These gluten-free shells are wonderful! They cooked up perfect al dente without falling apart. The flavor is really close to regular wheat pasta. I made a delicious mushroom alfredo stuffed shell dish for dinner.”

“I never would have thought gluten-free shells could taste this good. Barilla did an amazing job mimicking the texture of wheat pasta. My gluten-intolerant daughter was so happy to be able to join the rest of the family for stuffed shells night.”

“I love that these shells are made in a dedicated gluten-free facility. It gives me peace of mind that there is no cross-contamination. The taste and texture are indistinguishable from wheat. You’d never know these shells are gluten-free.”

Based on reviews, fans of Barilla brand pasta seem very satisfied with the quality and taste of the gluten-free line. Many call out how close it is to regular pasta in terms of texture. Those with celiac disease appreciate the safety of the gluten-free production facility. Overall, Barilla gluten-free shells are a hit and provide a great wheat-free alternative.

Conclusion

In conclusion, yes Barilla does make gluten-free pasta shells in both medium and jumbo sizes. Their gluten-free shells are crafted from a blend of corn and rice flours to mimic the taste and texture of wheat pasta. Available at many major retailers, the shells provide a safe, nutritious option for those eating gluten-free. Reviews indicate the shells cook up remarkably similar to traditional pasta shells. The shells can be used in any favorite stuffed shell recipe or pasta dish calling for shells. Barilla Gluten Free Shells allow anyone on a gluten-free diet to continue enjoying classic Italian pasta dishes. While priced slightly higher than wheat shells, the quality and safety makes them worth the cost for those with gluten sensitivities. Overall, the Barilla gluten-free shells offer delicious possibilities for gluten-free cooking and baking.

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