The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Indulge in the comfort of The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a classic Italian dish that promises to delight your taste buds. These large pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce, and baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress with this delicious meal!
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. This nutritional breakdown helps ensure a balanced meal for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly in a baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lighter option. Additionally, feel free to use any marinara sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce for a personal touch.
Serving and Pairings
These stuffed shells pair beautifully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or a light sauté of seasonal vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of red wine also complements the flavors wonderfully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. The dish can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta shells can lead to breakage.
- Not draining the ricotta properly may result in a watery filling.
- Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland flavors.
- Forgetting to cover the dish while baking can dry out the shells.
- Using too much sauce can make the dish soggy.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses for the filling.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Top with additional cheese for extra gooeyness.
FAQs
Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator before baking, and simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when you’re ready to bake.
What sauce can I use for stuffed shells?
While marinara is classic, you can also use Alfredo sauce or pesto for a unique twist. Experimenting with different sauces can elevate the dish.
Can I use meat in the filling?
Absolutely! You can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or even spinach for a more hearty filling. Just mix it in with the ricotta.
How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?
Make sure to toss the cooked shells in a little olive oil before filling them. This helps prevent sticking.
What can I serve with stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells pair well with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells is a delightful dish that brings families together around the dinner table. With its creamy filling and rich sauce, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the flavors of Italy right at home!
The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly in a baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
