This stuffed shells recipe is packed with Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce—an indulgent, cheesy comfort dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
🔥 Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🍽️ Cook Time: 35 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 50 minutes | 🍴 Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
Let’s Cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Boil shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the filling: In a skillet, cook Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess grease. In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the cooked sausage.
Fill the shells: Spoon the sausage mixture into each pasta shell.
Assemble & bake: Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in a baking dish. Arrange filled shells in the dish and top with remaining sauce and extra cheese. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly.
Serve & enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
🍽️ “Cheesy, savory, and delicious—this stuffed shells recipe is comfort food at its finest!”
Tips & Variations:
Make it vegetarian: Swap sausage for sautéed spinach and mushrooms.
Extra cheesy: Add more mozzarella on top before baking.
Make ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and bake when ready.
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