Baked Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm, hearty embrace of baked pasta. Among the myriad of Italian classics, Heavenly Baked Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells stand out as a quintessential favorite. This dish combines the rich flavors of creamy ricotta, melting mozzarella, and the nutritional goodness of fresh spinach, all enveloped in tender pasta shells. It’s a perfect meal for family gatherings, a cozy dinner for two, or even entertaining guests who appreciate the art of Italian cooking.

Indulge in the comfort of Heavenly Baked Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells, a classic Italian dish that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe features creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and fresh spinach, all nestled in tender pasta shells. With a flavorful marinara sauce and a golden cheese topping, this dish not only impresses but also satisfies. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a mouthwatering meal that brings family and friends together for a delightful dining experience.

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Ingredients

20 large pasta shells

15 oz fresh ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Fill the Shells: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Stuff each pasta shell with a generous amount of the ricotta mixture and place them in the baking dish, opening side up.

Add the Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re well coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake the Dish: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

30 minutes | 1 hour | 4-6 servings