The aroma of bubbling marinara sauce mixed with the creamy richness of ricotta fills the air, making stuffed shells ricotta an irresistible dish. Imagine perfectly al dente pasta hugging a delicious filling, topped with gooey melted cheese that pulls apart in glorious strands. It’s comfort food at its finest, guaranteed to make your taste buds dance.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration! I remember the first time I made stuffed shells ricotta for a family gathering. The joy on my loved ones’ faces was priceless as they took their first bites. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, and once you dive in, you’ll understand why it’s a fan favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Stuffed shells ricotta makes dinner prep fun and easy with minimal fuss
- Flavorful and cheesy, this dish looks beautiful on any table
- You can customize the filling based on what you have available, making it incredibly versatile
- Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish never fails to impress!
I recall my cousin’s eyes lighting up when she tasted these stuffed shells for the first time at our annual Thanksgiving feast.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Jumbo Pasta Shells: These big guys are perfect for stuffing; be sure to choose high-quality ones to hold their shape while cooking.
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Ricotta Cheese: Look for creamy and rich ricotta; it should be well-drained to avoid watery filling.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella adds a stretchy texture; don’t skimp on this layer of cheesiness!
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Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan enhances flavor and adds delightful nuttiness to each bite.
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Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce; it brings everything together beautifully.
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Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
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Egg: One egg helps bind the filling together; it also gives it a lovely richness.
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Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder amps up the flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors in this comforting dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil water in a large pot and add salt. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Create the Filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined. The mixture should be creamy yet thick enough to hold its shape.
Fill the Shells: Carefully stuff each cooked shell with about two tablespoons of the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Avoid overfilling to prevent spills during baking.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of your marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Arrange and Top: Place filled shells in a single layer over the sauce in your baking dish. Pour remaining marinara sauce over them generously and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese for that melty topping everyone loves.
Bake Until Golden: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—your kitchen will smell heavenly by now!
Enjoying homemade stuffed shells ricotta is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket. Serve them hot from the oven with fresh basil sprinkled on top for that gourmet touch!
You Must Know
- Stuffed shells ricotta are more than just a meal; they bring joy and laughter to any gathering
- These cheesy delights fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, making everyone eager for dinner
- Plus, they’re perfect for customizing based on your cravings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente, then prepare your ricotta filling while they cool. Bake the assembled dish at 375°F for about 30 minutes for a bubbly finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese or add spinach for extra flavor. A sprinkle of nutmeg can also elevate the taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, maintaining that cheesy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking pasta shells; they should be slightly firm to hold the stuffing well
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the flavors of your stuffing
- Let your baked shells rest before serving; this helps them set and makes serving easier
Cooking my first batch of stuffed shells ricotta was a hilarious adventure; I accidentally spilled half my cheese mixture on the floor! My dog certainly enjoyed that moment.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese in stuffed shells ricotta?
Absolutely! Mixing mozzarella or parmesan enhances flavor and texture beautifully.
How do I make stuffed shells ricotta ahead of time?
Prepare and assemble them, then refrigerate before baking. Add extra baking time when ready to cook.
Are stuffed shells ricotta freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze assembled shells before baking, then bake straight from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy.
Irresistible Stuffed Shells Ricotta
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Dive into the comforting world of stuffed shells ricotta, where each jumbo pasta shell is filled with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then baked in rich marinara sauce. This delightful dish is perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, offering a blend of flavors that will make your taste buds sing. With its gorgeous presentation and customizable filling options, stuffed shells are sure to be a hit on any dining table.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (well-drained)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot with salt. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Stuff each shell with about two tablespoons of the cheese mixture.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange filled shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour remaining marinara sauce over them and sprinkle with extra mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (about 220g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider mixing spinach into the cheese filling or using cottage cheese instead of ricotta. - Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for an extra pop of color. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days or frozen for later enjoyment.