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Italian cuisine has always been celebrated for its rich flavors, comforting dishes, and the joy it brings to the dining table. Today, we’re diving into a classic favorite: Italian Stuffed Shells. This delightful recipe combines creamy ricotta cheese, savory marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta shells, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a taste of Italy.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Italian Stuffed Shells, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Stuff the Shells: Carefully spoon the ricotta mixture into each cooked pasta shell, filling them generously.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, then top with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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