Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these irresistible Baked Pasta Shells that promise to be a game-changer in your culinary repertoire! Imagine perfectly cooked pasta shells generously filled with creamy ricotta, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with a golden, bubbling layer of melted mozzarella. This Italian-inspired dish is not just a meal; it's a comfort food experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your baked pasta shells cook evenly and achieve a nice, bubbly top.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 12 large pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta shells are cooking, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Once the pasta shells are cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for a few minutes so they are easier to handle.
- Spread a thin layer of 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. This will help prevent the pasta shells from sticking to the dish.
- Carefully fill each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or a piping bag for easier filling. Place the filled shells in the baking dish, open side up, in a single layer.
- Once all the shells are filled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, ensuring they are well coated.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the marinara sauce. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the filling set a bit, making it easier to serve.
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious baked pasta shells!
Tips
- Always cook pasta shells al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Use a piping bag or a spoon for neat and even filling of the shells.
- Don't skip rinsing the pasta shells in cold water - this stops the cooking process and makes them easier to handle.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some minced garlic or fresh basil to your ricotta mixture.
- Make sure to cover the dish with foil initially to prevent the cheese from burning.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the filling to set and make serving easier.
- For a crispy top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 52mg
