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Italian cuisine is a treasure trove of comfort foods, and among its most beloved offerings are dishes that celebrate the rich, harmonious marriage of cheese and pasta. Few meals embody this concept more than stuffed pasta shells. These delightful creations are not just a treat for the palate; they evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making them the perfect choice for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the busy week ahead. The star of today's culinary journey is the "Cheesy Delight Stuffed Shells," a recipe that elevates the humble pasta shell into a luxurious dish filled with a medley of cheeses and enveloped in a savory marinara sauce.

Easy Stuffed Shells

Indulge in these Cheesy Delight Stuffed Shells that are bursting with creamy flavors! This easy recipe features large pasta shells filled with a delicious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, mixed with aromatic herbs. Simply bake them in marinara sauce for a golden, bubbly finish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, each bite is a cheesy dream! Serve with fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor. Try this comforting dish today!

Ingredients
  

20 large pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon garlic powder

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

      Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and smooth.

        Fill Shells: Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag.

          Assemble: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, seam side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, covering them completely.

            Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the shells.

              Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 55 minutes | 4 servings