Irresistible Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe for Comfort Food

When the aroma of melted cheese and freshly baked pasta wafts through the house, you know something magical is happening in the kitchen. Ricotta stuffed shells are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly evening, with tender pasta enveloping creamy ricotta, all drizzled with zesty marinara sauce. It’s a dish that promises to transport you straight to an Italian trattoria, minus the plane ticket.

These delightful shells are not just a feast for the taste buds; they also tug at the heartstrings. I vividly remember my first attempt at making them during a family gathering—let’s just say, the kitchen resembled a cheese explosion, but my relatives declared it a triumph. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing friends at gatherings, ricotta stuffed shells deliver both comfort and flair.

I still chuckle when I think about my uncle trying to eat one of these without spilling any sauce. Spoiler alert: he failed spectacularly!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Large Pasta Shells: You’ll need about 20-25 shells; look for sturdy ones that won’t break during boiling.

• Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it’s the star of this dish!

• Shredded Mozzarella: Use good-quality mozzarella; it melts beautifully and adds that gooey texture we love.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan elevates flavor; avoid pre-grated for best results.

• Fresh Spinach: Adds color and nutrients; feel free to substitute with frozen if needed.

• Marinara Sauce: Store-bought works fine, but homemade is always a showstopper; go bold with spices!

• Garlic Powder: A pinch enhances flavor without overwhelming the delicate cheese.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that tie all flavors together perfectly.

• Italian Seasoning: Adds depth; if you’re feeling adventurous, mix your own blend!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Boil Your Shells: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add pasta shells and cook until al dente per package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.

Create Your Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella (save some for topping), spinach, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and half of the parmesan. Mix until well combined.

Stuff Those Shells!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a spoon or piping bag (if you’re feeling fancy), fill each shell generously with your creamy mixture. Place them seam-side up in a baking dish.

Add The Sauce & Cheese: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells until they are generously coated. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan on top so it can melt into cheesy perfection.

Bake Away!: Pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Enjoy that delicious aroma filling your kitchen as they bake!

Enjoy every bite! Your friends will be begging for seconds… or thirds!

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding cooked sausage or mushrooms to your filling mix or swapping out marinara for pesto if you’re in the mood for something different! Whether you serve these goodies at an elegant dinner party or as part of a cozy family meal, they’re sure to steal the show every time.

So there you have it! Your journey into making ricotta stuffed shells awaits—grab those ingredients and fire up that oven!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta shells while preparing your ricotta mixture. Assemble them in layers with sauce for even cooking and flavor absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment by adding spinach or herbs to the ricotta. A sprinkle of mozzarella on top adds a delightful cheesy crust!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Creating ricotta stuffed shells was a game-changer for my family dinners; watching everyone savor each bite made my heart swell with joy.

FAQ

What type of ricotta works best for stuffed shells?

Use whole milk ricotta for creaminess and flavor that enhances your dish.

Can I make these shells ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and assemble them, then refrigerate until ready to bake.

How do I prevent my pasta from sticking together?

Toss cooked pasta with olive oil immediately after draining to keep it separated.