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If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and delicious dinner that’s perfect for family meals or entertaining, these Stuffed Cheese Shells are the answer! Filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella, these shells are a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Cheesy, saucy, and totally satisfying.
- Easy to Make: Just boil, stuff, and bake!
- Customizable: Add spinach, ground meat, or your favorite herbs.
- Perfect for Crowds: Great for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy dish:
- 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
- 1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce (or homemade marinara)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves (pressed or minced)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic until well combined.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Spread a thin layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or an ice cream scoop.
- Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, seam side up.
4. Add Sauce & Cheese
- Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Cheese Shells
- Add Spinach: Mix in 1 cup of cooked, chopped spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Homemade Sauce: If you have time, make your own marinara sauce for a fresher taste.
- Make It Meatier: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey to the ricotta mixture.
- Freeze for Later: Assemble the dish (without baking) and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and bake as directed.
Serving Ideas
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping.
- For Parties: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
- As a Main Dish: Pair with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes! Cottage cheese works well as a substitute for ricotta.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free jumbo shells and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Use 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano instead of dried.
What if I don’t have jumbo shells?
You can use manicotti or even lasagna noodles rolled up with the filling.
Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer
These Stuffed Cheese Shells are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, they’re a great way to use pantry staples!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please, these Stuffed Cheese Shells are the answer. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!
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