Name: Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 1 large egg (beaten); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Imagine a cozy evening, the aroma of bubbling cheese and savory pasta wafting through your home, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells are not just a dish; they’re an experience, a hug from the inside on those chilly nights when all you want to do is curl up on the couch with something delicious. delicious garlic butter shrimp pasta.

Now, picture this: it’s Saturday night, and you’ve invited friends over for dinner. You want to impress them without spending all day in the kitchen. savory Italian chicken panini These Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells will be your culinary superhero, swooping in to save the day with their fantastic flavors and cheesy goodness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish offers effortless preparation and amazing flavors that will wow your guests
Its beautiful presentation makes it perfect for any gathering or family meal
You can customize the fillings based on personal preferences or dietary needs, ensuring everyone is happy at the table
Plus, it’s ideal for leftovers—if there are any!

I still remember the first time I made Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells. My friends couldn’t resist raving about them; one even declared it was “life-changing.” For more inspiration, check out this Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta Shells: Jumbo shells are ideal for holding all that cheesy goodness. Choose high-quality pasta for the best texture.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds a delightful richness. creamy Tuscan chicken dish Opt for whole milk ricotta for maximum flavor.
Shredded Mozzarella: Use fresh mozzarella for gooey melted perfection that stretches out beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan brings a nutty flavor and crunchy topping. It’s essential for that golden crust!
Marinara Sauce: A good quality store-bought or homemade sauce works wonders here; choose one with herbs for added flavor.
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil elevates flavors with its aromatic touch. Fresh is always better than dried.
Eggs: Lightly beaten eggs help bind everything together and create a fluffy filling.
Garlic Powder: A pinch adds depth to your filling without overpowering other flavors.

For the Sauce:

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances overall taste and helps sauté any veggies if you choose to add them.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate every ingredient’s flavor; don’t skip these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells cook evenly and reach that bubbly perfection.

Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and add salt before tossing in your jumbo pasta shells. Cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes, then drain and cool slightly.

Create the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, and fresh basil. Mix until well blended and creamy.

Stuff Those Shells: Carefully fill each shell with about one tablespoon of the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Place filled shells into a greased baking dish snugly together.

Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells until they are generously covered but not swimming in sauce! Sprinkle remaining mozzarella over the top for extra cheesiness.

Bake to Perfection: Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes in your preheated oven. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly on top.

Enjoy watching them transform into cheesy masterpieces while filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas!

After pulling them out of the oven (and trying not to burn yourself), let them sit for about five minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you’re feeling fancy!

Now go ahead, dig into those Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells while reminiscing about cozy nights filled with laughter—because nothing says comfort like this delightful dish! appetizing crab cheese delight.

You Must Know

Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells are a crowd-pleaser; the gooey cheese and hearty pasta create a comforting dish perfect for any occasion
The aroma of baking cheese fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist
Customize with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente. Meanwhile, prepare your cheesy filling and sauce. Layer everything in a baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ricotta for cottage cheese or add sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Experimenting with herbs can also elevate the flavor profile of your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results, ensuring it’s heated through before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells, always use freshly grated cheese for maximum flavor
Don’t overfill the pasta shells; they expand while baking!
Let them rest after baking to achieve that perfect slice

Creating Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells reminds me of family gatherings where everyone eagerly awaited my cheesy creation. The smiles were worth every minute spent in the kitchen.

FAQ

Can I use regular pasta instead of shells?

Yes, but remember to adjust cooking times as needed for different shapes.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Substitute whole wheat pasta and add more vegetables for extra nutrition.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

A mix of mozzarella and ricotta provides great flavor and creaminess in every bite.

Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells