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Classic stuffed shells with ricotta cheese is a beloved Italian-American dish that perfectly embodies the essence of comfort food. With their large, curved pasta shells cradling a creamy, flavorful ricotta filling, these culinary gems are generously topped with rich marinara sauce and baked until they achieve a golden, bubbly perfection. Whether served at family gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or special occasions, stuffed shells are sure to please a crowd and evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia.

Classic Stuffed Shells with Ricotta

Discover the warmth of classic stuffed shells with ricotta, a beloved Italian-American comfort food. These large pasta shells, filled with creamy ricotta and topped with rich marinara sauce, offer a delicious meal perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. Learn about the dish's history, gather essential ingredients, and follow step-by-step instructions to achieve golden, bubbly perfection. Plus, explore flavor variations and serving suggestions to make this dish uniquely yours. Enjoy the joy of homemade cooking and create unforgettable memories around the dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, and thyme mixed)

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo shells for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse in cold water, then set aside.

      Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

        Stuff the Shells: Take one cooked shell and fill it generously with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Repeat this process until all the shells are stuffed.

          Layer the Sauce: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce (about ½ cup) on the bottom. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce.

            Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

              Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray foil with cooking spray) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6