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Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Ricotta Stuffed Shells


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  • Author: Mia Park
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a cozy baked pasta dinner made with jumbo shells, creamy ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a comforting Italian-inspired meal that is perfect for family dinners, make-ahead meals, and easy weeknight baking.


Ingredients

12 oz jumbo pasta shells

15 oz ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 large egg

24 oz marinara sauce

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon olive oil


Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells until just al dente. Drain and lay them out so they do not stick together.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and fully combined.

4. Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

5. Fill each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture and arrange them open side up in the dish.

6. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle the top with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan.

7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

8. Remove the foil and bake for 10 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling.

9. Let the shells rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest filling and best texture.

Do not overcook the shells before stuffing or they may tear too easily.

Add a little extra marinara before reheating leftovers so the pasta stays soft and saucy.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 465
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg