Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these irresistible Makeover Cheese Stuffed Shells that are about to become your new obsession! Imagine perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a creamy, dreamy cheese mixture, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and baked to golden perfection. This isn't just another pasta dish – it's a culinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, these cheese stuffed shells are guaranteed to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed shells.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese filling. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the cheese filling.
- Once the pasta shells are cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish. This will prevent the shells from sticking and add flavor.
- Carefully stuff each jumbo pasta shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag for easier filling. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up, in a single layer.
- Once all the shells are filled and arranged in the baking dish, pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the top of the shells, ensuring they are well covered. You can sprinkle additional mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and a nice crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This will help the flavors meld and the cheese to melt.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to handle the shells.
- Serve the cheese stuffed shells warm, garnished with fresh basil or additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian makeover cheese stuffed shells!
Tips
- Cook pasta shells just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Use a piping bag or zip-lock bag with the corner cut off for easier and neater shell filling.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley to your cheese mixture.
- Allow the shells to rest for a few minutes after baking to make them easier to serve and prevent burning your mouth.
- For a lighter version, you can use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheeses.
- Make sure to spread sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.
- Don't overstuff the shells – aim for a generous but not overflowing filling.
- For a crispy top, broil the shells for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 236kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 18g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
