Name: Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12-16 large pasta shells; 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups spinach, chopped (optional, can substitute with other vegetables); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 ½ cups marinara sauce; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Description

Stuffed shells are a delicious, classic Italian-American dish filled with creamy ricotta cheese and spinach, topped with marinara sauce, and baked to golden perfection. A comforting, hearty recipe that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Learn how to make this easy stuffed shells recipe with ricotta and marinara sauce, perfect for any gathering!

Ingredients

12–16 large pasta shells

1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 egg

2 cups spinach, chopped (optional, can substitute with other vegetables)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

2 ½ cups marinara sauce

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions (usually 9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, spinach (if using), garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
Pour about 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in the baking dish, opening side up.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is covered.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Meat Lover’s Stuffed Shells: Add ground beef, sausage, or chicken to the ricotta mixture for a protein-packed version.
Vegetarian Options: Substitute spinach with other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure your marinara sauce and ricotta are gluten-free.
Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 30min
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American