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Easy Stuffed Shells with Ricotta Cheese

BySoha

When it comes to comforting Italian dishes, nothing beats a pan of baked stuffed shells filled with creamy ricotta and melted cheese. This easy stuffed shells with ricotta cheese recipe is rich, flavorful, and satisfying, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. Each shell is filled with a luscious ricotta mixture, nestled in savory marinara sauce, and baked until golden and bubbling.

Ingredients List

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Stuffed Shells with Ricotta Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until just al dente. Drain, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Fill the Shells

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag and arrange them in the dish.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with extra mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Cook Time

Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Servings

Serves 6

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 390
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 740mg

Storage Instructions

Let the dish cool completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Suggestions

For added flavor, mix a bit of spinach or chopped herbs into the ricotta filling. You can also add a touch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a mild kick. Serve with garlic bread and a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Seasonal Relevance

Stuffed shells with ricotta cheese are perfect year-round. They make an ideal cozy dinner during the colder months and a delightful baked dish for spring and fall family gatherings.

Conclusion

Easy stuffed shells with ricotta cheese bring the heart of Italian comfort food right to your table. With their creamy filling, tangy sauce, and melted cheese topping, every bite is a taste of simple elegance. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort.

Easy Stuffed Shells with Ricotta Cheese
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Easy Stuffed Shells with Ricotta Cheese

Recipe by Soha
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

30

minutes
Calories

2340

kcal
Total time

45

minutes

Easy stuffed shells with ricotta cheese are creamy, cheesy, and baked in a rich marinara sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for family dinners, this Italian-inspired dish combines soft pasta, savory cheese, and aromatic herbs for a satisfying meal that feels both homely and elegant.

Ingredients

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (plus extra for topping)

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

  • Boil jumbo shells in salted water until al dente, then drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic until creamy.
  • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish and fill each shell with the ricotta mixture.
  • Arrange shells in the dish, top with remaining marinara and extra cheese.
  • Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake 10 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
  • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Add spinach or herbs to the ricotta for extra flavor.
  • Use a homemade or high-quality marinara sauce for the best taste.
  • You can prepare the dish ahead and refrigerate before baking.

FAQs

Q1: Can I add spinach to the ricotta mixture?
Yes. Fresh or frozen spinach (well-drained) adds flavor, color, and nutrition to the filling.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. Prepare and assemble the shells, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: What’s the best sauce to use for this recipe?
A classic marinara sauce works beautifully, but you can use a creamy tomato or rosé sauce for a richer taste.

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