Go Back
Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Ricotta Stuffed Shells

The ultimate comfort food, Ricotta Stuffed Shells are creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a delightful meal!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
  • 2.25 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried basil
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2.5 cups marinara sauce
  • 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • minced parsley optional garnish

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Frying Pan
  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Cook jumbo pasta shells according to directions until they are al dente. Do not overcook. Run under cold water as soon as they are removed from the boiling water. Set aside for now.
  2. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray.
  3. Mix the ricotta cheese, egg, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  4. Pour and spread 1 ¾ cup of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the dish.
  5. Fill each pasta shell with the ricotta cheese mixture and place them evenly throughout the baking pan.
  6. Once all pasta shells are filled and nestled into the sauce, drizzle the remaining marinara over all the shells and top off with mozzarella cheese.
  7. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
  8. Broil for 2 minutes to get your cheese nice and toasty (if you prefer). Serve garnished with minced fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze stuffed shells before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • Tip 3: Serve these shells with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Tip 4: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
  • Tip 5: Fresh basil or grated parmesan can be used as a garnish instead of parsley for a flavorful twist.