Easy Stuffed Shells Dinner Recipe

Here's a delicious recipe for stuffed shells, a classic Italian dish filled with a savory ricotta cheese mixture and topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.

Stuffed Shells Recipe

Ingredients:

- For the Stuffed Shells:

  - 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells

  - 15 ounces ricotta cheese

  - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

  - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  - 1 egg

  - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

  - Salt and pepper, to taste

- For the Sauce:

  - 2 tablespoons olive oil

  - 1 onion, finely chopped

  - 3 cloves garlic, minced

  - 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

  - 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  - 1 teaspoon dried basil

  - 1 tablespoon sugar (to reduce acidity)

  - Salt and pepper, to taste

- Additional Ingredients:

  - Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta Shells:

   - Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

   - Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

   - Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

   - Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.

   - Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Prepare the Filling:

   - In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped fresh parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

4. Assemble the Stuffed Shells:

   - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

   - Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

   - Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.

5. Bake the Stuffed Shells:

   - Spoon the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells, spreading evenly.

   - Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

   - Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

   - Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

6. Serve:

   - Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving.

   - Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve hot.

Enjoy these delicious stuffed shells with a flavorful ricotta filling and savory marinara sauce. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.