Best Stuffed Shells Recipe

Overview: Stuffed shells are a comforting Italian-American dish made with large pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then baked in marinara sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 box jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups marinara sauce

Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
5. Fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
9. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Kitchen Tools Required:

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Measuring cups and spoons

Interesting Background: Stuffed shells are an Italian-American creation, inspired by traditional Italian dishes like cannelloni and manicotti. The use of large pasta shells makes this dish easier to assemble and serve, while the rich cheese filling and marinara sauce provide classic Italian flavors.