Description
These Stuffed Jumbo Shells are filled with a creamy, cheesy ricotta mixture and topped with a rich marinara sauce. Baked to perfection, this classic Italian dish makes for an easy, comforting dinner the whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.
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Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
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Stuff the Shells: Once the shells are cool enough to handle, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture into each shell. Gently press the filling into the shell and place it in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Repeat until all shells are filled.
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Assemble the Dish: Pour half of the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
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Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve: Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with extra marinara sauce or a side salad.
Notes
- You can make this dish ahead of time by preparing it up to the point of baking, then refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- For a heartier dish, add cooked ground beef, sausage, or spinach to the ricotta mixture.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a bit of heavy cream to the marinara sauce before pouring it over the shells.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 stuffed shells
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg