Baked Stuffed Shells

why make this recipe

Baked Stuffed Shells are a comforting and hearty dish that everyone loves. They are perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you want a delicious meal without too much fuss. With creamy cheese and rich marinara sauce, this dish feels special but is easy to prepare.

how to make Baked Stuffed Shells

Ingredients :

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Fill each shell with the cheese mixture.
5. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Place stuffed shells in the dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce on top.
7. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly.

how to serve Baked Stuffed Shells

Serve Baked Stuffed Shells hot from the oven. You can pair them with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a nice touch!

how to store Baked Stuffed Shells

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well before freezing.

tips to make Baked Stuffed Shells

• For an extra touch, add some cooked ground meat or vegetables to the cheese mixture.
• If you like more sauce, feel free to add extra marinara over the stuffed shells before baking.
• Use a mix of different cheeses for a unique flavor, like adding some feta or goat cheese.

variation

Try using spinach in the cheese filling or swap out the marinara sauce for a white sauce for a different twist on this classic dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular pasta shells instead of jumbo shells?
A: Yes, but the cooking and filling process may be a bit more challenging. Jumbo shells hold the filling better.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells the day before and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.

Q: Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just make sure to choose a marinara sauce without any meat ingredients.

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