Cheese Stuffed Shells with Marinara Recipe

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about gathering around the dinner table with your loved ones, sharing the joy of a delicious home-cooked meal. Today, we’re bringing you a recipe that embodies comfort and creativity—Cheese Stuffed Shells with Marinara. Picture this: large pasta shells overflowing with creamy, gooey cheese, all smothered in a rich, flavorful marinara sauce. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family night, a special occasion, or even just a regular weeknight dinner that needs a touch of extra love.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 24 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
4. Spread 1 cup of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them, open side up, in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well-covered.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve hot.

Helpful Tips

For a burst of freshness, add some spinach or finely chopped vegetables to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This recipe is very versatile—you can even swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese or use a different blend of your favorite cheeses for a unique twist.

Storage Instructions

To store leftovers, let the shells cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until completely heated through.

Pairings

These Cheese Stuffed Shells with Marinara pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad, some garlic bread, and a glass of sparkling water or your favorite light, non-alcoholic beverage. For dessert, a simple fruit salad or a light sorbet would complement this rich meal perfectly.

At Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen, transforming everyday meals into memorable experiences. We invite you to try this Cheese Stuffed Shells with Marinara recipe and share your culinary successes with us. Spread the love by sharing this recipe with your friends and family. For more delicious inspirations, follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter. Happy cooking!