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Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells with Marinara Sauce

Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells with Marinara Sauce

Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells with Marinara Sauce is an irresistible dish that combines the comforting flavors of creamy cheeses and zesty marinara. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, these stuffed shells are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With a cheesy filling and a hearty sauce, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells are a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. They are simple to prepare, customizable, and packed with flavor. Plus, they make for great leftovers!

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  • Easy to Prepare: A straightforward recipe that anyone can master.
  • Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
  • Customizable: Add veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

  • 20 large pasta shells
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

How to Make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Marinara

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  5. Stuff each pasta shell with a generous amount of the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish, open side up.
  6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
  8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  10. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Ensure the pasta shells are cooked al dente; they will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Don’t overstuff the shells; a heaping tablespoon is usually enough.
  • Let the dish sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven for easier serving.

Easy Variations

  • Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the cheese filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Substitute ground turkey or beef for a meatier version.
  • Use different types of cheese like goat cheese for a tangy twist.

What to Serve With It

  • Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping in the marinara.
  • A side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
  • Roasted vegetables for a colorful and healthy addition.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Recipe Card

Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells with Marinara Sauce
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:

  • 20 large pasta shells
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  5. Stuff each pasta shell with a generous amount of the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish, open side up.
  6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
  8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  10. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes: Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

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