Ricotta Stuffed Shells
The ultimate comfort food, Ricotta Stuffed Shells are filled with creamy cheese and herbs, nestled in rich marinara sauce, and topped with gooey mozzarella. This easy weeknight dinner is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying Pan
- Large Pot
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Jumbo pasta shells
- 2 1/4 cups Ricotta cheese
- 1 Large egg
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 1/2 cups Marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups Mozzarella cheese shredded
- Minced parsley optional garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells according to directions until they are al dente. Do not overcook. Run under cold water as soon as they are removed from the boiling water. Set aside for now.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray.
- Mix the ricotta cheese, egg, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour and spread 1 ¾ cup of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the dish.
- Fill each pasta shell with the ricotta cheese mixture and place them evenly throughout the baking pan.
- Once all pasta shells are filled and nestled into the sauce, drizzle the remaining marinara over all the shells and top off with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Broil for 2 minutes to get your cheese nice and toasty (if you prefer). Serve garnished with minced fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked Ricotta Stuffed Shells. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
- Pairing: These shells pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Meat addition: For meat lovers, consider adding cooked ground beef or sausage to the ricotta filling for added flavor and protein.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or parsley for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.