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Easy Stuffed Shells

These Easy Stuffed Shells are filled with creamy ricotta, nestled in marinara, and topped with bubbling mozzarella. A perfect cozy dinner!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 430 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the stuffing

  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus 1 cup for topping)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the shells

  • 20 pieces jumbo pasta shells

For the sauce

  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.
  • Cook pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until creamy.
  • Spread 1 cup marinara sauce over the bottom of the baking dish.
  • Fill each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture and place them in the dish, open side up.
  • Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle with the extra 1 cup mozzarella.

Baking

  • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
  • Garnish with parsley or basil, serve warm, and enjoy!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freezer-friendly; assemble and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen with 20 extra minutes cook time. Pair with garlic bread and salad for a complete meal.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Healthy Dinner, Pasta, Stuffed Shells