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Cheese-Stuffed Shells Delight is a comforting dish that brings warmth to the heart and soul. This Italian classic showcases large pasta shells filled with a rich blend of creamy cheeses, enveloped in a flavorful marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, these shells are not only visually appealing but also immensely satisfying.

Oozing Cheese-Stuffed Shells Delight

Indulge in the warm, cheesy goodness of Cheese-Stuffed Shells Delight, an easy weeknight dinner that's perfect for spring gatherings and festive brunches. These large pasta shells are filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, all smothered in zesty marinara for a comforting dish that will make your taste buds sing. Gather your loved ones and try this delightful recipe tonight—it's sure to become a family favorite! Save this for later.

Ingredients
  

20 large pasta shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 large egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup mozzarella cheese, for topping

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

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

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

        Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked shell and carefully fill it with the cheese mixture. Use a teaspoon or piping bag for easier stuffing. Place each filled shell seam-side up in a large baking dish.

          Add Marinara Sauce: Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are covered.

            Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the entire dish, covering the sauce and shells.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Garnish and Serve: Allow the dish to cool for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy the oozing cheesy goodness!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6