Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Shells: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any dining table. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but think of the rich history behind stuffed pasta, which dates back to ancient times in Italy. This dish not only showcases the culinary artistry of Italian cuisine but also embodies the warmth of family gatherings and shared meals. The combination of creamy ricotta, savory herbs, and a luscious marinara sauce creates a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds.

People love Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Shells for their incredible taste and satisfying texture. The shells are perfectly al dente, cradling the rich filling that melts in your mouth. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 20 large pasta shells
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Pasta Shells

First things first, let’s get our pasta shells ready. This is a crucial step because we want them to be perfectly al dente to hold all that delicious filling.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt is important as it flavors the pasta.
2. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the pasta shells. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes, until they are al dente.
3. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps prevent them from sticking together.
4. Set the shells aside on a clean kitchen towel or a baking sheet to cool while we prepare the filling.

Preparing the Ricotta Filling

Now that our shells are cooling, let’s whip up that creamy ricotta filling. This is where the magic happens!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese. The combination of these cheeses will create a rich and creamy filling.
2. Add the egg to the cheese mixture. This will help bind everything together and give the filling a nice texture.
3. Next, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. I like to use a spatula or a wooden spoon for this, but you can also use a hand mixer if you prefer a smoother texture.
4. Once everything is mixed, give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. You want it to be flavorful but not overpowering.

Assembling the Stuffed Shells

Now comes the fun part—stuffing those shells! This is where you can really get creative.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your shells are baked to perfection.
2. Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the shells from sticking and add flavor.
3. Take a cooled pasta shell and carefully spoon a generous amount of the ricotta filling into it. I usually fill it until it’s heaping, but you can adjust based on your preference.
4. Place the stuffed shell seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process until all the shells are filled and placed in the dish. It’s okay if they are snug; they will expand a little while baking.
5. Once all the shells are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Make sure to cover all the shells so they don’t dry out while baking.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the sauce. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.

Baking the Stuffed Shells

We’re almost there! Now it’s time to bake our creamy ricotta stuffed shells.

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help keep the moisture in and prevent the cheese from burning.
2. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
3. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be absolutely heavenly!
4. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This will make it easier

Conclusion:

In summary, these Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Shells are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their pasta game. The combination of rich ricotta, savory herbs, and a luscious marinara sauce creates a dish that is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, these stuffed shells are sure to be a hit. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these delightful shells with a fresh garden salad and some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of your favorite cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own! Once you’ve whipped up a batch of these Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Shells, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation! Let’s spread the joy of cooking together and inspire others to dive into this delicious dish. Happy cooking!

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