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Easy Stuffed Shells Recipe


  • Author: Ellie
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

 

Dive into the comforting flavors of homemade stuffed shells, a beloved Italian pasta dish that’s a true crowd-pleaser. This easy-to-follow recipe showcases the perfect balance of rich cheese, fresh herbs, and a delectable baked pasta experience. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy night in, these stuffed shells are sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings for a hearty, homemade meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 lb ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:
    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  • Prepare the Filling:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the filling is smooth and well-combined.
  • Stuff the Shells:
    Spoon the cheese mixture into each pasta shell, filling them generously. Place the stuffed shells into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Add Marinara Sauce:
    Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are all covered. Sprinkle dried oregano over the top, if desired.
  • Bake the Stuffed Shells:
    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
  • Serve:
    Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the cheese filling.
  • If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute part of the ricotta with low-fat cottage cheese.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or frozen for later use.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Pasta
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Stuffed Shells, Cheese Stuffed Pasta, Italian Stuffed Shells, Baked Stuffed Shells, Easy Pasta Recipe, Homemade Stuffed Shells