Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Ricotta Stuffed Shells baking in the oven. This classic Italian-American dish combines tender pasta shells filled with a creamy, cheesy ricotta mixture, all nestled in a bed of rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe during a potluck dinner, and it instantly became a family favorite. It's a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for weeknights or special gatherings. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dish!

Why You'll Love This Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite baked pasta recipe. These Ricotta Stuffed Shells bring together classic flavors and effortless preparation for a meal everyone will rave about.

First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps—boil, stuff, and bake—you’ll have a stunning dish that looks like it took hours to prepare.

They’re also perfect for feeding a crowd. This recipe makes about 20 stuffed shells, which is plenty to serve a hungry family or impress dinner guests.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s freezer-friendly! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and freeze them, making weeknight dinners or meal prep a breeze.

Lastly, the flavors are simply divine. The creamy ricotta filling pairs beautifully with the tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, creating a comforting dish that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Ricotta Stuffed Shells lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so special.

Jumbo Pasta Shells are the star of the show. Their large size makes them perfect for holding the rich ricotta filling. Be sure to cook them just until al dente so they don’t tear while stuffing.

Ricotta Cheese is the base of the creamy filling. Its mild flavor and smooth texture make it ideal for this dish. Full-fat ricotta adds extra richness, but part-skim works well if you’re looking to lighten things up.

Mozzarella Cheese is essential for that gooey, melted topping. You can use pre-shredded mozzarella for convenience, but freshly grated melts even better.

Marinara Sauce ties everything together. Use a high-quality store-bought sauce for convenience, or make your own for an extra layer of homemade flavor.

Parmesan Cheese adds a savory, nutty note to the filling. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.

If you have a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off, these can make filling the shells quicker and easier. Otherwise, a spoon works just as well!

How To Make This Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

Creating this delicious dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these step-by-step instructions to bring it all together.

Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water. Be sure to cook them until al dente, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain them and let them cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.

While the pasta cools, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Spread a layer of marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish. This will keep the shells moist and prevent them from sticking.

Stuff each shell with a generous spoonful of the ricotta mixture. Arrange the filled shells in the baking dish, open side up, and pack them snugly together.

Once all the shells are filled and arranged, pour more marinara sauce over the top, ensuring each shell is coated. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese for that irresistible melted topping.

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let the shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Storage Options

Leftover Ricotta Stuffed Shells? No problem! This dish stores beautifully and tastes just as good the next day.

To refrigerate, transfer the shells to an airtight container and store them for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.

For longer storage, freeze the shells before baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook them directly from frozen—just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

If you’ve already baked the shells, you can still freeze leftovers. Wrap them tightly and reheat in the oven straight from the freezer.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

For a meatier version, add cooked, crumbled sausage or ground beef to the marinara sauce. This adds a hearty layer of flavor.

Want to sneak in some veggies? Finely chop spinach or kale and mix it into the ricotta filling. It’s a great way to add nutrients without changing the creamy texture.

If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a vegan ricotta alternative and dairy-free mozzarella. Many plant-based cheeses work beautifully in this recipe.

For a different twist, swap the marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce. This creates a rich, indulgent version of stuffed shells.

Finally, experiment with different cheeses! Add a touch of shredded provolone or asiago to the filling for a more complex flavor profile.

With these tips, you’re ready to make Ricotta Stuffed Shells a regular star in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the joy of sharing this classic dish with your loved ones!

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