Description
These easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a family favorite! Jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, all baked to perfection. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling:
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
Optional Toppings:
- Additional Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the marinara sauce with dried basil and oregano.
- Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta filling and place them in the baking dish, seam-side down.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are all covered with sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce, depending on your preference.
- Add ground beef, sausage, or vegetables to the filling for extra flavor.
- For a creamy twist, try adding a bit of heavy cream to the marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: stuffed shells, ricotta stuffed shells, easy stuffed shells, baked stuffed shells, ricotta pasta, Italian dinner