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Stuffed Shells

Delicious Italian comfort food featuring large pasta shells filled with a creamy cheese mixture and topped with marinara sauce.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Aluminum foil
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

Pasta Shells

  • 20-24 shells Large pasta shells To hold the filling.

Filling Ingredients

  • 15 ounces Ricotta cheese For a creamy and rich filling.
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Adds gooeyness and flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Grated, for a savory touch.
  • 1 large Egg To bind the filling together.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley Chopped, for a burst of freshness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced, to enhance the flavor.

Seasoning

  • to taste Salt For seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper For seasoning.

Topping

  • 2 cups Marinara sauce For topping the shells before baking.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil For greasing the baking dish.

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  • Fill each cooked shell with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture and place them in the greased baking dish, opening side up.
  • Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is covered.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Stuffed shells are versatile; feel free to customize the filling with vegetables or meats to suit your taste.
Keyword Comfort Food, Pasta, Stuffed Shells