The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Creamy ricotta-stuffed pasta shells baked in a savory marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese—this comforting dish is perfect for a hearty and satisfying dinner. Whether for a family meal or a cozy gathering, it’s a surefire way to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s simple to prepare with easy-to-find ingredients.

The combination of creamy ricotta, savory marinara, and melted cheese is irresistible.

It’s a crowd-pleaser, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The dish can be made ahead and reheated, saving time on busy days.

Customizable with different cheeses, sauces, or add-ins like spinach or ground meat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Filling:

1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells

15 oz ricotta cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Optional Toppings:

Additional Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water, following package instructions but cooking them 1-2 minutes less for a firmer texture. Drain and rinse with cold water to halt cooking, then set aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Stuff each pasta shell with a generous tablespoon of the ricotta mixture and arrange them seam-side up in the dish.

Combine the remaining marinara sauce with basil and oregano in a small bowl. Spoon the sauce over the shells, ensuring they are evenly covered.

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Allow the dish to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Variations

Add Protein: Mix in cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken with the marinara sauce for a heartier dish.

Vegetarian Twist: Add sautéed spinach or chopped mushrooms to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

Cheese Swap: Try using cottage cheese instead of ricotta or adding shredded provolone or gouda for a unique taste.

Spicy Flair: Mix red chili flakes into the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free jumbo shells to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.

Freezing: Assemble the stuffed shells but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour, removing the foil for the last 15 minutes.

Related Recipes:

• Taco Stuffed Shells: Pasta Perfection Unleashed!
• Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
• Hearty Cheeseburger Casserole

FAQs

How can I prevent the shells from breaking during cooking?

I recommend undercooking the shells slightly and handling them gently when draining and rinsing.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, the shells can be assembled a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

Substitute marinara with Alfredo sauce or a homemade tomato-cream sauce for a different flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella substitutes. Ensure the marinara sauce is also dairy-free.

How do I reheat stuffed shells without drying them out?

Cover the dish with foil while reheating in the oven to keep the shells moist. Add a splash of marinara if needed.

Conclusion

Ricotta-stuffed shells are a delicious, comforting dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. With its creamy filling, flavorful marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or looking for a cozy meal, these stuffed shells are sure to hit the spot.

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