When you think of comfort food, ricotta stuffed shells come to mind like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: tender pasta shells generously filled with creamy ricotta and a medley of herbs, all swimming in rich marinara sauce. Smells heavenly, right? The flavors dance together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles and fork-wielding enthusiasm.
I remember the first time I made ricotta stuffed shells for my family. It was a random Tuesday night, and I thought, “Why not elevate our weeknight dinner?” As soon as they took their first bite, the kitchen erupted in joyful cheers. Who knew that little pasta could create such happiness? Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends, these delightful shells never fail to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ricotta stuffed shells are incredibly simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy nights
- The flavor is rich and comforting, capturing the essence of Italian cuisine
- Their vibrant colors make them visually appealing on any dinner table
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to impress at both casual and formal occasions
I’ll never forget when my best friend declared these stuffed shells her new favorite meal after just one bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Large Pasta Shells: Look for quality pasta; they should be sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking.
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Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it provides a richer flavor.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and adds that gooey texture everyone loves.
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Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for an authentic touch; it enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green spinach for its nutritional benefits and fresh taste.
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Eggs: Eggs help bind the filling together while adding richness; don’t skip this essential ingredient.
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Marinara Sauce: A good quality jarred or homemade sauce makes all the difference in flavor.
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Italian Seasoning: This blend adds depth and aromatic qualities; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; add according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta Shells: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously before tossing in your pasta shells until al dente—about 8-10 minutes should do it.
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well blended.
Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag (if you’re feeling fancy), carefully fill each pasta shell with the cheesy mixture. Aim for generous portions without overstuffing.
Layer with Sauce: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of your marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish and arrange filled shells on top. Pour remaining sauce over shells.
Bake Them Up!: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to allow that glorious cheese to bubble up beautifully.
Savor Your Creation!: Let cool slightly before serving; this dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven! Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
And there you have it! Deliciously creamy ricotta stuffed shells perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- Ricotta stuffed shells are a delight, offering a creamy texture and savory flavor that pleases every palate
- Opt for fresh herbs to enhance the dish’s aroma and taste
- The vibrant presentation makes it a showstopper at any dinner gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta shells until al dente, then prepare your filling while they cook, allowing for an efficient workflow.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ricotta for cottage cheese or add sautéed spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly creamy ricotta stuffed shells, avoid overcooking the pasta
- Use a mix of cheeses for added richness
- Let the shells cool slightly before filling for easier handling
Sharing this dish with friends always brings back smiles, especially that time my neighbor asked for seconds—success on a plate!
FAQ
How do I prevent my stuffed shells from sticking together?
Lightly coat them with olive oil after cooking to keep them separated.
Can I freeze ricotta stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Assemble them and freeze before baking for a convenient meal later.
What can I serve with ricotta stuffed shells?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this comforting dish.
Delicious Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the warmth of homemade ricotta stuffed shells, a comforting Italian dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Filled with creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and a medley of cheeses, these tender pasta shells are layered in rich marinara sauce and baked to perfection. This recipe is not only simple but also guaranteed to impress everyone at your table with every cheesy bite.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Fill each shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in a baking dish and arrange filled shells on top. Pour remaining sauce over the shells.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to allow cheese to bubble.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
