Welcome, culinary adventurers! Today, we’re diving into the cheesy, saucy world of Classic Stuffed Shells. Imagine plump pasta shells stuffed to the brim with a delightful mixture of cheese, all nestled in rich marinara sauce. It’s like a warm, gooey hug for your taste buds! Let’s put on our apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish.
Classic Stuffed Shells
If you’ve ever wanted to impress your dinner guests without slaving away in the kitchen all day, then stuffed shells are your secret weapon! Add a sprinkle of love and a dash of enthusiasm, and you’re in business!
Ingredients
- 12-16 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s time to get that culinary magic going!
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. You don’t want them mushy; they need to hold all that cheesy goodness in!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Add the egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then mix until well combined. This cheesy blend is what dreams are made of, folks!
- Once the pasta shells are cooked and cooled slightly, carefully stuff each shell with the cheesy mixture. Don’t worry if some cheese oozes out; that just means it’s extra delicious!
- Spread a little marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish, and then place the stuffed shells on top. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells, making sure they’re swimming in saucy goodness!
- Sprinkle a bit more mozzarella on top because who can resist more cheese? Exactly!
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil if you like, and serve! Enjoy your cheesy masterpiece!
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your Classic Stuffed Shells with a side of smiles and laughter. You’ve earned it!