The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Introduction:

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells is the recipe for you. These jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta cheese and savory marinara sauce are a crowd-pleaser and surprisingly simple to make, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
– 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– Optional: extra Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions:

Preparation:

1. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with non-stick spray.

Cooking Process:

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving & Storage:

Serving Suggestions:

For a complete meal, serve The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells with a fresh green salad and garlic bread on the side. You can also garnish the dish with chopped parsley or basil for added freshness and color.

Storage Tips:

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven until heated through.

Variations:

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the cheese mixture for an extra protein boost. You can also experiment with different types of cheeses like asiago or fontina for a more complex flavor profile.

FAQ:

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze stuffed shells before baking. Simply assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake the shells directly from the freezer, adding extra cooking time as needed.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of this dish, omit the egg and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese mixture for added flavor and texture.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade marinara sauce, feel free to use it in this recipe for a more personalized touch. Just make sure the sauce is well-seasoned to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a comforting and versatile dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy meal at home, these cheesy shells are perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite!

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The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells

The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells


  • Author: Isabella Roberts
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Description

Savor a tasty and simple dinner with these spinach and ricotta stuffed shells. This vegetarian recipe features a blend of three cheeses, garlic, and Italian herbs, all baked to perfection with marinara sauce. Ideal for any weeknight meal!


Ingredients

Scale

1 box jumbo pasta shells

15 oz ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

4 cups marinara sauce


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Fill each cooked pasta shell with a generous amount of the ricotta cheese mixture and place in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover them completely.
    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving.
  8. Enjoy your delicious and easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells!

Notes

You can customize this recipe by adding cooked ground meat such as beef, sausage, or turkey to the ricotta mixture for a heartier dish.

Feel free to sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving for an extra pop of flavor.

These stuffed shells freeze well, so you can make a double batch and freeze half for later. Just be sure to thaw before baking.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6

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