Name: Irresistible Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped); 1 large egg; Salt and pepper to taste

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There’s something magical about ricotta stuffed shells that transforms a simple dinner into a heartwarming feast. Picture this: tender pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and smothered in rich marinara sauce, all bubbling away in the oven, filling your kitchen with an aroma that beckons everyone to the table. The first bite reveals a delightful explosion of flavors and textures, from the velvety cheese to the tangy sauce, making it hard to resist going back for seconds—or thirds.

This dish always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter mingled with delicious food. I can still hear my Aunt Maria proclaiming these shells were “better than a hug,” and honestly, she wasn’t wrong. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or just looking for comfort food on a weeknight, these ricotta stuffed shells will surely steal the show and put smiles on faces.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These ricotta stuffed shells are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights
The flavor profile is a heavenly mix of creamy and tangy that keeps everyone coming back for more
Their visual appeal, covered in vibrant marinara and bubbling cheese, makes them a hit at any gathering
Versatile enough to add veggies or proteins based on your preference, they adapt beautifully to any taste

I remember the joy on my family’s faces when I served these ricotta stuffed shells for the first time—everyone went back for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Large Pasta Shells: Use fresh or dried shells; they should be sturdy enough to hold generous portions of filling.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; check for freshness by sniffing it first!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This will melt beautifully over your stuffed shells, adding gooey goodness.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated works best; it adds depth and a nutty flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought brand or make your own; either way, it should be rich and flavorful.
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil adds a burst of freshness; don’t skip this step!
Eggs: One egg helps bind the filling together and adds richness.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking when you pop those cheesy beauties in later.

Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta shells until al dente. Drain them carefully so they don’t break apart—they need to hold their stuffing!

Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy; feel free to taste-test this heavenly mixture—it’s amazing!

Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each shell generously with the ricotta mixture. Don’t be shy—these are meant to be stuffed! Place filled shells in a baking dish.

Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce evenly over the filled shells. Make sure every shell is blissfully bathed in sauce for maximum flavor.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then uncover and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown—oh boy!

There you have it! A comforting dish of ricotta stuffed shells that not only fills bellies but warms hearts too. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

You Must Know

Ricotta stuffed shells are a delightful way to impress your dinner guests, combining creamy ricotta with flavorful herbs
They are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in
The aroma of baking pasta fills the air, creating an inviting atmosphere that everyone loves

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente, then prepare your filling while they cook. After draining, stuff them and bake until bubbly for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in spinach or ground meat for added flavor. You can also top with different cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan to personalize your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover ricotta stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes for best texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use a mix of fresh herbs like basil and parsley for vibrant flavor
Ensure your pasta shells are fully cooled before stuffing to avoid melting the cheese filling
A layer of sauce at the bottom of your baking dish prevents sticking and adds moisture

Cooking these ricotta stuffed shells always brings back fond memories of family dinners filled with laughter and love, where everyone fights over the last shell on the plate.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pasta shells?

Absolutely! Pre-packaged shells save time and still taste delicious when filled with ricotta.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese works well as a lighter option, providing similar texture and flavor.

How do I know when my stuffed shells are done?

They should be heated through and bubbling hot, typically around 30-35 minutes at 350°F.