If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions, look no further than Ricotta Stuffed Shells. These jumbo pasta shells are filled to the brim with a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce, and baked to perfection with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a classic Italian-American dish that always hits the spot, and it’s surprisingly simple to make. Let’s dive into the details that make these Ricotta Stuffed Shells a must-try.

Why This Ricotta Stuffed Shells Stands Out

What sets this Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe apart from others? For starters, the filling is incredibly flavorful and creamy, thanks to the blend of ricotta cheese, herbs, and spices. The addition of lemon juice gives it a refreshing brightness that complements the richness of the cheese perfectly. Moreover, these shells are generously topped with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella, creating a satisfying dish that’s both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight meal or hosting guests, these Ricotta Stuffed Shells are sure to impress!

What Goes Into Ricotta Stuffed Shells

The following ingredients come together to create the delicious Ricotta Stuffed Shells:

12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
2 1/4 cups ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Minced parsley for optional garnish

Toolbox for This Recipe

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:

Large pot for boiling the pasta
Mixing bowl for the ricotta filling
9×13 inch baking dish for assembling the shells
Spoon or piping bag for filling the shells
Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)

Build Ricotta Stuffed Shells Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Make sure to cook them until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each jumbo shell with the ricotta mixture. Be generous with the filling; you want each shell to be packed full of flavor!

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of your baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the sauce-covered shells. Feel free to add more cheese if you’re a cheese lover!

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray the foil with cooking spray) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with minced parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your delectable Ricotta Stuffed Shells!

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you’re looking to modify the recipe to fit your budget or preferences, consider these swaps:

Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lower-cost option.
Substitute any store-bought marinara sauce with a homemade version if you have the time.
For a vegetarian twist, add spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the ricotta filling.
Use a different type of cheese, such as provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses, if mozzarella isn’t available.

Don’t Do This

To ensure your Ricotta Stuffed Shells turn out perfectly, here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

Don’t overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente to withstand baking.
Avoid skipping the lemon juice; it brightens the filling and balances the flavors.
Don’t forget to cover the dish with foil during the initial baking to prevent the cheese from burning.
Resist the temptation to skimp on filling the shells; a well-stuffed shell is key to a flavorful dish.

Make-Ahead & Storage

These Ricotta Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled shells before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Ask the Chef

Can I use different types of cheese in the filling?

Absolutely! While ricotta is traditional, you can mix in cream cheese for extra creaminess or swap it for cottage cheese for a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust seasonings to taste.

What if I don’t have jumbo shells?

If jumbo shells are not available, you can use manicotti pasta or even regular lasagna noodles. Just ensure they are cooked properly and can hold the filling well.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can create a vegan version by using a plant-based ricotta or blending tofu with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and spices to create a similar texture and flavor. Substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce for binding.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling or mixing in some diced jalapeños with the marinara sauce.

Keep Cooking

If you loved this Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe, check out these other delicious dishes:

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make these scrumptious Ricotta Stuffed Shells! They’re perfect for any occasion and will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite as you savor the deliciousness straight from your kitchen. Happy cooking!

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