Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Ricotta Stuffed Shells baking in the oven. These tender pasta shells, filled with a creamy ricotta mixture and nestled in a rich marinara sauce, make the perfect dinner for any night of the week.

I first discovered this recipe years ago while hosting a dinner party for friends. It was an instant hit! The combination of creamy cheese, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a dish everyone loves. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to put together.

Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can whip it up for your family tonight!

Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple. This Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe has all the makings of a family favorite.

Perfect for Busy Nights: Despite its elegant appearance, this dish comes together quickly and easily, especially if you prep parts ahead of time.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: With its creamy filling and savory marinara sauce, it’s impossible not to go back for seconds. Even picky eaters will enjoy the mild and comforting flavors.

Budget-Friendly Ingredients: You only need a handful of affordable, easily accessible ingredients to create a meal that feels gourmet.

Make-Ahead Marvel: This recipe is freezer-friendly, making it a lifesaver for meal prepping or entertaining guests without stress.

Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Ricotta Stuffed Shells always deliver. Now, let’s talk about the ingredients that make this dish shine!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Ricotta Stuffed Shells lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one works together to create a symphony of flavor and texture.

Jumbo Pasta Shells: The base of this dish, these shells are perfectly sized to hold the creamy ricotta filling. Look for a good-quality brand to ensure they cook evenly and don’t fall apart.

Ricotta Cheese: The star of the filling, this cheese is mild, creamy, and delicious. Use full-fat ricotta for the best flavor and texture, but part-skim works if you’re watching calories.

Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a melty, gooey topping that makes the dish irresistible. Shredding fresh mozzarella yourself will give you the best results.

Parmesan Cheese: A bit of grated Parmesan brings a nutty, savory kick to the filling. It also works beautifully sprinkled on top for extra flavor.

Marinara Sauce: A high-quality store-bought marinara will save you time, but feel free to use homemade if you have some on hand. Choose a sauce with minimal sugar and plenty of fresh tomato flavor.

Fresh Herbs: Chopped basil and parsley not only brighten the dish but also add a layer of freshness that complements the creamy filling.

Special Equipment: You’ll need a 9x13-inch baking dish for this recipe. A piping bag or spoon will also come in handy when filling the shells.

How to Make Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Making Ricotta Stuffed Shells is a breeze, and the results are absolutely worth it. Let me guide you through the steps!

1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Ricotta Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, 1 egg, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Stuff the Shells: Spoon the ricotta mixture into a piping bag (or use a spoon) and carefully fill each pasta shell. Be generous but avoid overstuffing, as they may split.
4. Assemble the Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the bottom of your baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara evenly over the shells, ensuring they’re well coated.
5. Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and some grated Parmesan over the top. This step ensures a bubbly, golden finish.
6. Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

In under an hour, you’ll have a stunning, satisfying dish ready to impress.

Storage Options

Ricotta Stuffed Shells are just as good the next day, making them a great option for leftovers.

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
• Freeze Before Baking: Assemble the dish but skip the baking step. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed as directed.
• Freeze After Baking: Allow the dish to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until hot and bubbly.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Ricotta Stuffed Shells is how adaptable they are. Here are some fun ways to make this recipe your own:

• Add Protein: Mix cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or ground beef into the marinara sauce for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Twist: Add sautéed spinach, kale, or mushrooms to the ricotta filling for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Swap out some of the ricotta for goat cheese or cream cheese for a tangier filling.
• Spice It Up: Stir red pepper flakes into the marinara or filling for a kick of heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free jumbo shells to accommodate dietary needs.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – this dish is forgiving and endlessly customizable!

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