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Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Cheesy Stuffed Shells
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Cheesy Stuffed Shells are a comforting and crowd-pleasing baked pasta dish featuring jumbo shells filled with a creamy, flavorful mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs, all baked in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this easy and customizable recipe delivers warm, gooey goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells

Cheese Filling

  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 cup chopped fresh spinach or herbs (such as basil or parsley)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Sauce and Aromatics

  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Cook the Shells: Boil jumbo pasta shells in generously salted water until al dente—tender but still firm to the bite—then drain and set them on a lightly oiled tray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, chopped spinach or herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated to create a fragrant, creamy filling.
  3. Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture, packing each shell generously but not to the point of overstuffing to avoid spilling during baking.
  4. Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer side by side, cover them with the remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a golden crust.
  5. Bake Until Bubbly: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly and create a bubbling, irresistible finish.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking pasta shells to prevent sogginess and ensure they hold the filling well.
  • Drain the cooked shells thoroughly and place them on a lightly oiled surface to prevent sticking and tearing.
  • Use cheeses at room temperature for easier mixing and creamier filling texture.
  • Generously layer marinara sauce over and under the shells to keep them moist and flavorful.
  • Let the baked dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the filling and ease serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy stuffed shells, stuffed pasta shells, baked pasta, ricotta stuffed shells, family dinner, comfort food, vegetarian option, easy dinner

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/cheesy-stuffed-shells/