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In today's culinary journey, we delve into the delightful world of Italian comfort food with an irresistible recipe for Cheesy Bliss: Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a satisfying meal that brings together creamy cheeses and savory marinara sauce. The magic of these stuffed shells lies in their versatility; they can easily cater to both adult palates and the discerning tastes of children. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, preparing a comforting meal for a cozy evening at home, or impressing friends at a gathering, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire.

The Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the delicious world of Italian comfort food with this easy ricotta stuffed shells recipe! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these cheesy delights combine creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and savory marinara sauce. The shells are versatile enough for both adults and kids, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a satisfying meal that warms the heart and impresses the palate. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Ingredients
  

12 large pasta shells (cannelloni-style)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

Additional mozzarella cheese for topping (optional)

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook Pasta Shells: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

        Fill Shells: Once the pasta shells have cooled enough to handle, use a spoon to fill each shell generously with the cheese mixture. Set filled shells aside.

          Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in the dish in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top if desired.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the shells cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4-6