Stuffed shells ricotta are like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with creamy goodness and cheesy delight. Imagine those perfectly cooked pasta shells cradling a rich, velvety filling of ricotta cheese, herbs, and spices—it’s an experience that makes your taste buds dance! The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have even the pickiest eaters begging for seconds. Traditional Italian Bomboloni Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun get-together with friends, these stuffed shells are sure to steal the show and leave everyone smiling.
I remember the first time I made stuffed shells ricotta for my family; I was convinced I’d be the next culinary superstar. My mom’s old recipe had been passed down from generations, and I felt the weight of history on my shoulders. As I stirred the ricotta mixture, I could almost hear my grandma’s voice guiding me. The laughter around the dinner table as we dug into those cheesy parcels was priceless. So grab your apron, and let’s create some delicious memories together with this delightful dish!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These stuffed shells ricotta are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- The flavor profile is rich and comforting, combining creamy cheeses with aromatic herbs.
- Visually stunning, these colorful shells will impress guests at any gathering.
- Plus, they offer versatility; you can customize fillings based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients for stuffed shells ricotta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: Look for large pasta shells that can hold plenty of filling without breaking.
- Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture; it’s the star of this dish!
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This adds gooeyness and flavor; don’t skimp on this cheesy goodness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nutty depth that complements the other cheeses beautifully.
- Fresh Basil or Spinach: Use fresh herbs or greens to add color and freshness to your filling.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce for a tasty base.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder brings extra flavor without overpowering the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make stuffed shells ricotta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray—because no one likes shell-shocked pasta clinging stubbornly to the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully and set aside—don’t worry if some break; they’ll still taste amazing!
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil (or spinach), and garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated into a cheesy masterpiece.
Step 4: Stuff Those Shells
Take each cooked shell and spoon in your delightful ricotta mixture until they’re generously filled but not overflowing—let’s keep things tidy!
Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish
Spread a layer of marinara sauce along the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Place each stuffed shell seam-side up in a single layer over the sauce like they’re lounging at a beach party.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with leftover mozzarella cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown—this is where magic happens!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with more marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy these delightful stuffed shells ricotta as you bask in culinary glory!
You Must Know
- Stuffed shells ricotta is a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory sauce.
- It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
- You’ll love how versatile and satisfying this dish can be, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfection in your stuffed shells ricotta, start by boiling the pasta while preparing your cheese filling. Once the shells are cooked al dente, fill them generously and layer them with sauce before baking to golden perfection. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your stuffed shells ricotta by adding spinach for extra nutrition or swapping out mozzarella for provolone. You can also mix in spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes to give it an unexpected kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed shells ricotta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, ensuring the sauce stays saucy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly filled shells, use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off; it’s a game changer!
- Always ensure your pasta is al dente to prevent mushiness during baking.
- Don’t skimp on the sauce; it keeps everything moist and flavorful.
It was my sister’s birthday when I first made stuffed shells ricotta for the family. Watching everyone devour those cheesy pockets of joy while sharing stories made it a night to remember!
FAQs:
What are stuffed shells ricotta made of?
Stuffed shells ricotta are a delightful Italian dish featuring large pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture. This filling often includes ingredients like mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs such as basil and parsley. One pot pasta with tomato and spinach The stuffed shells are typically baked in marinara sauce until bubbly and golden on top. This dish is not only comforting but also allows for variations, including the addition of spinach or ground meat to the filling.
How do you serve stuffed shells ricotta?
To serve stuffed shells ricotta, place individual portions on plates and accompany them with a generous ladle of marinara sauce. You can garnish the dish with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for added flavor. A side salad or garlic bread complements it perfectly, enhancing your dining experience. This dish is suitable for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings, making it versatile and appealing to everyone.
Can stuffed shells ricotta be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells ricotta ahead of time. Assemble the dish by filling the pasta shells and placing them in a baking dish with sauce. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply remove the cover and bake as instructed. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on busy days.
What can I substitute for ricotta in stuffed shells?
If you’re looking for alternatives to ricotta in stuffed shells, consider using cottage cheese blended until smooth, cream cheese mixed with herbs, or even vegan options like tofu blended with nutritional yeast. These substitutes maintain a creamy texture while offering different flavors that can complement your dish well. Experimenting with these alternatives keeps your meals exciting and caters to various dietary preferences.
Conclusion for stuffed shells ricotta:
In conclusion, stuffed shells ricotta is a versatile and delicious meal that brings comfort and joy to any table. With simple ingredients like large pasta shells, creamy ricotta cheese, and flavorful marinara sauce, this dish is easy to customize according to your tastes. Easy Chicken Parmesan recipe Whether prepared ahead of time or served fresh from the oven, stuffed shells promise satisfaction at every bite. Embrace the warmth and richness this recipe offers; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Stuffed Shells Ricotta
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (3 stuffed shells per serving) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Stuffed shells ricotta are the epitome of comfort food, featuring jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a rich blend of creamy ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and fresh herbs. Baked in a savory marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese, this dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation, stuffed shells ricotta will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup fresh basil or spinach (chopped)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped basil or spinach, garlic powder, and salt until well combined.
- Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture and arrange them seam-side up in the baking dish over marinara sauce.
- Top with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: - For added nutrition, consider mixing in cooked spinach or swapping out cheeses based on personal preference. - To save time, prepare stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
