Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Ronzoni recipe for stuffed shells! This classic comfort food is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful blend of creamy ricotta, savory marinara, and perfectly cooked pasta. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish – a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounce) package Ronzoni Jumbo Shells
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 24 ounces your favorite marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Ronzoni jumbo shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Don't overcook! They should be firm to the bite as they'll continue to cook in the oven.
- Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Shells
- Gently stuff each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture. Don't overfill; a little filling goes a long way.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, slightly overlapping if necessary.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they're evenly coated.
- Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes them easier to serve. Enjoy this delicious and easy meal!
Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells:
- Don't overcook the shells: Al dente pasta is key for perfectly stuffed shells. Overcooked shells will become mushy.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your stuffed shells will be greatly enhanced by using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Add some spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling or the marinara sauce.
- Customize your filling: Get creative with the filling! Add spinach, mushrooms, or sausage for extra flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Stuffed Shells: Omit the sausage and add sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions to the ricotta filling.
- Meat Lovers Stuffed Shells: Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the ricotta filling for a heartier dish.
- Baked Ziti Variation: If you prefer a simpler preparation, use ziti pasta instead of shells and mix the ricotta filling directly with the sauce before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This Ronzoni recipe for stuffed shells is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. Its delicious flavors and simple preparation make it an ideal addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meal options. Enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish!