– 12-16 jumbo pasta shells
– 15 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil and oregano)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Making Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells can be broken down into these easy steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Fill the Shells: Carefully spoon the ricotta mixture into each cooked pasta shell, filling them generously.
5. Spread Marinara Sauce: In a baking dish, layer a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the stuffed shells in the dish.
6. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Once done, let the shells cool for a few minutes before serving.