Dive into a cheesy paradise with our delectable Three Cheese Jumbo Shells! This Italian classic is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a dish that will leave your taste buds dancing. Imagine perfectly cooked jumbo shells, generously stuffed with a creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan filling, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. Whether you’re impressing guests at a dinner party or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe promises to be a showstopper. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Fold in half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated parmesan cheese into the ricotta mixture, creating a creamy cheese filling.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to prevent shells from sticking.
- Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, ensuring they are generously stuffed but not overfilled.
- Arrange the filled shells in a single layer in the baking dish, nestling them close together.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them completely.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top of the shells.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot as a main course with a side salad or garlic bread.
Tips
- Choose the Right Shells: Make sure to select high-quality jumbo pasta shells for the best results. Look for those that are sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking.
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: When boiling the shells, cook them just until al dente. They will continue to cook in the oven, so a little firmness will help maintain their shape.
- Chill the Filling: If you have time, let the cheese mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before filling the shells. This will make it easier to handle and fill.
- Layering is Key: Always spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish to prevent the shells from sticking and to add extra flavor.
- Cover and Uncover: Start by covering the baking dish with foil to keep the moisture in, then uncover it for the last 10-15 minutes to achieve that golden, bubbly cheese topping.
- Garnish for Flair: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only add a pop of color but also enhance the dish's flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Pair It Right: Serve your Three Cheese Jumbo Shells with a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 361kcal
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 71mg
