Description
Deliciously cheesy stuffed pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Perfect for a comforting family dinner!
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 large pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the large pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain the pasta shells in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, and the egg.
- Add dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture. Place filled shells on a plate or baking dish.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Place filled pasta shells in a single layer over the marinara sauce.
- Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Insert a knife into the center; if it comes out hot, the stuffed shells are ready.
- Allow the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm with a side salad and garlic bread.
- Dig in and savor the delicious flavors of your homemade stuffed shells!
Notes
- For a healthier option, add sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the cheese filling.
- For a meatier version, mix in cooked ground beef or Italian sausage into the cheese mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes