Stuffed shells ricotta is like a warm hug from your grandma on a chilly day. Imagine soft, pasta shells filled to the brim with creamy ricotta cheese, mingling with savory herbs and tangy marinara sauce, all bubbling in the oven until golden perfection. Each bite delivers a comforting explosion of flavor that wraps around you like your favorite blanket. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just trying to impress your family on a weeknight, this dish is sure to be a star.
I remember the first time I made stuffed shells ricotta; it was for my best friend’s birthday dinner. I wanted everything to be perfect, and let’s just say, there may have been a little too much excitement involved—think flying pasta shells! But when we finally sat down and took our first bites, the room fell silent except for happy sighs and a few “Mmmms.” It’s moments like these that make cooking so special. Now, let’s dive into the world of stuffed shells ricotta and create some delicious memories together!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Stuffed shells ricotta are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy nights
- The flavor profile balances richness and zest beautifully, delivering an unforgettable taste experience
- Their inviting appearance makes them an eye-catching centerpiece for any dining table
- Plus, they can easily adapt to suit vegetarian preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand!
There was that one time when I served this dish at a family gathering, and my uncle declared it “life-changing.” Who knew pasta could have such a tremendous effect on someone?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Large Pasta Shells: Opt for big shells that can hold plenty of cheesy goodness inside.
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Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh ricotta for creaminess; it makes all the difference in flavor.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This melty cheese tops it off perfectly with its gooey texture.
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Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is fine unless you have your secret family recipe hanging around.
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Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil brightens up the flavors nicely.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds an extra layer of savory depth—don’t skip it!
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Egg: Helps bind the filling together; trust me; it’s essential for structure.
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Salt and Pepper: A simple seasoning duo that elevates the overall taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Kitchen: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil water in a large pot and add salt before dropping in your pasta shells. Cook them until al dente—about 8-10 minutes—then drain and cool slightly.
Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and well combined; your kitchen will smell amazing.
Stuff Those Shells!: Carefully fill each shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag if you’re feeling fancy. Place them seam-side up into your prepared baking dish.
Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells generously until they’re almost swimming in deliciousness. Don’t forget to sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top!
Bake to Perfection: Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown—trust me; you’ll want to watch this part closely!
Now you have created an irresistible plate of stuffed shells ricotta that will impress anyone lucky enough to share in this culinary adventure with you! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- Stuffed shells ricotta is a delightful dish that combines comfort and creativity
- With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
- Plus, they are easy to make and can be customized based on your preferences
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the shells until al dente while you prepare the filling. This timing ensures everything comes together perfectly without overcooking any component.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ricotta with cottage cheese or add herbs like basil and parsley for an extra flavor boost. Personalizing your stuffed shells ricotta makes them uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, keeping them deliciously creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best stuffed shells ricotta, ensure your pasta is not overcooked; it should hold its shape well
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a burst of flavor that elevates the dish
- Lastly, allow the filling to cool slightly before stuffing to prevent sogginess
Sometimes I reflect on that dinner party when my stuffed shells ricotta wowed everyone; even my picky cousin went back for seconds!
FAQ
What can I substitute for ricotta in stuffed shells?
Cottage cheese works well as a lighter alternative to traditional ricotta.
Can I freeze stuffed shells ricotta?
Yes, freeze before baking; just thaw and bake when ready to enjoy.
How do I prevent my pasta from sticking together?
Toss cooked shells with a bit of olive oil to keep them separate while cooling.
Stuffed Shells Ricotta
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Stuffed shells ricotta is a heartwarming dish that combines tender pasta shells with a creamy, herb-infused ricotta filling, all smothered in marinara sauce and baked to perfection. This delightful recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a comforting taste of home in every bite. Easy to prepare and customizable, these stuffed shells will undoubtedly impress your guests and make lasting memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Boil salted water and cook pasta shells until al dente (8-10 minutes), then drain.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, half mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture and place seam-side up in the baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (200g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
