Welcome to the final post in our Italian Recipe Series! After enjoying the flavors of Risotto alla Milanese, it’s time to indulge in another beloved Italian classic: Stuffed Shells. These pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, baked to perfection, and topped with savory marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Stuffed Shells Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
- 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta Shells:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Stuffed Shells:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Fill each cooked pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the ricotta cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.
- Bake the Stuffed Shells:
- Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Shells:
- Cook the pasta shells al dente: This ensures they hold their shape when filled and baked.
- Let the shells cool slightly: Handling them when they are cool enough to touch makes filling them easier.
- Customize the filling: Add spinach, cooked ground meat, or herbs to the ricotta mixture for added flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Stuffed Shells are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The creamy ricotta filling pairs perfectly with the tangy marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s a comforting meal that brings the flavors of Italy to your table.
Grazie e Buon Appetito!
We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring our Italian Recipe Series. From comforting classics like Stuffed Shells to elegant desserts like Tiramisu, these recipes bring the taste of Italy into your kitchen. Stay tuned for more culinary adventures and delicious recipes!
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.