Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (12 oz) Jumbo pasta shells
- 1 container (15 oz) Whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) High-quality marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the Pasta Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook them for about 2 minutes less than the package directions suggest. You want the pasta to be slightly firm (al dente) so it holds its shape during the stuffing and baking process. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking and prevent them from sticking together. - Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, the parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and the beaten egg. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything until the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and the texture is smooth and creamy. The egg acts as a binder, ensuring the cheese stays inside the shells while baking. - Step 3: Stuff the Shells
Spread about 1 cup of the marinara sauce onto the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each cooked shell generously with the ricotta mixture. Place the stuffed shells side-by-side in the baking dish, nestled closely together. Once all shells are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, focusing on the center of the shells. - Step 4: Bake and Garnish
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of holiday green to the dish.
- Cook Time: 60 minutes