Four Stuffed Pasta Shells
Tender pasta shells filled with a creamy cheese blend and baked in marinara sauce, creating a comforting and simple dish perfect for a cozy meal.
Equipment
- 1 baking dish
- 1 large pot for boiling pasta
- 1 mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 4 jumbo pasta shells
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese optional
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- Additional shredded mozzarella for topping
Instructions
- Boil the jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente, then drain and let them cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, cream cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
- Generously fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells on top of the marinara sauce, then spoon more sauce over them and sprinkle with additional shredded mozzarella.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Add cooked ground beef or chicken for extra protein.
- Incorporate spinach or mushrooms for added veggies.
- Use Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a creamy variation.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Top with fresh basil to enhance flavor.