Easy Italian Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. The creamy ricotta filling, combined with the tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, makes for a delicious and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jumbo pasta shells | 20 |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 lb |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish |
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Pasta: Cook jumbo pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff Shells: Carefully spoon ricotta mixture into each cooked pasta shell.
- Assemble Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange stuffed shells, then top with remaining marinara sauce.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
