Introduction
Stuffed shells ricotta is one of those classic dishes that always feels like a warm hug. It combines simple ingredients into something truly satisfying. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. The beauty of stuffed shells is how versatile they are and how easy they come together.
You get tender pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and a touch of seasoning. Everything is baked in a rich tomato sauce that adds just the right balance of tang and sweetness. The best part is that you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen or have advanced cooking skills. This recipe is designed for busy people who want delicious homemade food without the fuss.
In less than an hour, you can have a hearty, comforting meal on the table. The dish is filling but not heavy, and it can be customized in many ways to suit your tastes or dietary needs. From adding fresh spinach to tossing in ground meat or vegetables, you can make this your own.
If you love Italian food but want something more relaxed than lasagna, stuffed shells ricotta is an ideal choice. This recipe breaks down every step clearly and includes helpful tips to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. So, let’s get started with this quick and easy stuffed shells ricotta recipe that everyone will love.
Ingredients Needed
To make this recipe, you will need some basic ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Jumbo pasta shells are essential because their size makes them perfect for stuffing. The ricotta cheese is the star of the filling, giving it that creamy texture and mild flavor.
Mozzarella cheese adds a lovely melt and stretchiness on top while Parmesan gives a sharp, salty punch. One egg helps bind the filling ingredients together so they hold their shape inside the shells. Fresh spinach is optional but highly recommended if you want to sneak in some greens. Garlic brings a gentle aromatic flavor without overpowering the dish.
Marinara sauce ties everything together with its bright tomato base and herbs. Finally, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning brings out the best in every bite. Below is a helpful table with the ingredients along with their approximate calorie counts to keep things transparent and useful for meal planning.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Jumbo pasta shells | 20 shells | 700 kcal |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup (240g) | 430 kcal |
| Shredded mozzarella | 1 cup (113g) | 340 kcal |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup (50g) | 210 kcal |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 kcal |
| Fresh spinach (optional) | 1 cup (30g) | 7 kcal |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 kcal |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups (480ml) | 160 kcal |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 0 kcal |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | 0 kcal |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | 5 kcal |
This ingredient list makes about 20 stuffed shells. The total calories for the entire dish come to roughly 1932, which breaks down to around 97 calories per stuffed shell. You can adjust portions depending on how many people you are feeding.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
The cooking process for stuffed shells ricotta is straightforward and easy to follow. The first step is to preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. This ensures it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the filling.
Next, you will need to cook the jumbo pasta shells. It is important to cook them until they are al dente, meaning they are tender but still have a slight bite. Follow the package instructions carefully, usually boiling the shells for about 8 to 10 minutes. After cooking, drain the shells well and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Once the pasta shells are ready, the next step is to make the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you are using fresh spinach, make sure to chop it finely and mix it in as well. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This filling is what makes the shells so rich and flavorful.
Now, take a spoon and carefully fill each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture. Be gentle to avoid breaking the shells. Arrange the stuffed shells side by side in a baking dish that has been lightly coated with some marinara sauce. After all the shells are filled and placed, pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top. This will keep the shells moist during baking and add extra flavor.
To finish, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the entire dish. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Bake the shells in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. This second baking step allows the cheese to melt perfectly and get a golden bubbly finish.
Once baked, allow the dish to cool for about five minutes before serving. This resting time helps the filling set and makes it easier to serve.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about stuffed shells ricotta is how easy it is to customize to your liking. If you want to add some protein, cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken work wonderfully mixed into the filling.
For a vegetarian boost, you can add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the cheese mixture. Using fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of dried Italian seasoning can give the dish a brighter flavor profile. If you prefer a little heat, try sprinkling red pepper flakes into the filling or the sauce.
For those who want to reduce fat or dairy content, using part-skim ricotta or vegan cheese alternatives can make the dish lighter without sacrificing taste. You can also switch the marinara sauce with Alfredo or a spicy arrabbiata sauce if you want to try something different.
Finally, if you want more greens, layering fresh spinach or kale in the baking dish before placing the stuffed shells is an easy way to boost nutrition.
Nutritional Information
Stuffed shells ricotta provides a balanced meal with a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Each serving contains roughly 480 calories, which makes it a hearty option without being too heavy.
You get about 26 grams of protein mostly from the cheese and eggs, which is great for muscle repair and satiety. The carbohydrates come mainly from the pasta and tomato sauce, giving you energy. Fat content is moderate at 20 grams with 9 grams being saturated fat, largely from the cheeses.
You also get a decent amount of fiber, about 4 grams, especially if you add spinach or other vegetables. Sodium is moderate but can be adjusted by choosing low-sodium marinara sauce or cheese varieties. Overall, this recipe can fit well into a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed shells ricotta tastes amazing on its own but pairing it with a few sides will make your meal feel more complete. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds crunch and brightness that balances the creamy shells.
Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up extra sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli provide a healthy, colorful addition. You could even serve it with a simple side of steamed green beans or a caprese salad for more Italian flavors.
Garnish the stuffed shells with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and aroma. Serve it warm, and enjoy every bite with your favorite glass of wine or sparkling water.
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Conclusion
Making quick and easy stuffed shells ricotta is a fantastic way to bring the flavors of Italy into your home with minimal effort. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting goodness. It does not require complicated techniques, so even beginners can make it successfully.
The recipe is flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out cheeses, or include meat, this stuffed shells recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser. It reheats well too, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious homemade dinner that feels special every time. Try this recipe soon and see how quickly it becomes a favorite in your recipe rotation.