Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe with Minimal Ingredients

Short Description

This easy ricotta stuffed shells recipe is a comforting and delicious dish that requires just a handful of ingredients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these cheesy, creamy pasta shells are baked in marinara sauce for a flavorful, satisfying meal. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality Italian classic right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients – Requires only a few basic pantry and fridge staples.
• Easy to Make – Simple preparation steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Crowd-Pleaser – A family favorite that’s perfect for gatherings.
• Great for Meal Prep – Can be made ahead and stored for later.
• Customizable – Adaptable with different fillings and sauces to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Garlic
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Marinara sauce

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, a beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Stuff the Shells: Take each cooled pasta shell and fill it with a spoonful of the ricotta mixture.
4. Assemble the Dish: Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour additional marinara sauce over the top of the shells.
5. Add More Cheese: Sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra cheesy finish.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and cover the baking dish with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve: Let the shells rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Variations

• Meaty Option: Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the ricotta filling or layer it with the marinara sauce.
• Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells: Mix chopped, sautéed spinach into the ricotta filling for added nutrients.
• Alfredo Sauce: Substitute marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free ricotta and cheese alternatives, along with an egg replacer.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the filling or use spicy marinara sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze assembled (unbaked) shells in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the pasta shells from sticking together?

Drain the cooked shells and immediately rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What type of ricotta cheese should I use?

Use whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture, but part-skim ricotta works well too.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Choose a high-quality marinara for the best flavor, or make your own if you prefer.

Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?

Yes, but blend the cottage cheese for a smoother texture before using.

How do I make this dish more protein-rich?

Add cooked ground turkey, beef, or shredded chicken to the filling or sauce.

Can I bake these shells without covering them with foil?

Covering with foil helps prevent drying out. If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil halfway through baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free jumbo shells available at specialty stores or online.

What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Pair them with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I know when the shells are fully baked?

The sauce should be bubbling, and the cheese should be melted and golden brown on top.

Conclusion

This easy ricotta stuffed shells recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a make-ahead meal, these stuffed shells offer rich, cheesy goodness in every bite. Try them today and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal fuss!

Print