Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells

Name: Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: April 28, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The simplicity of preparation means you can whip it up in no time, even on busy days.
An irresistible blend of cheeses creates a delightful flavor explosion with every bite.
Visually stunning with vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress anyone.
Perfect for customizing with your favorite ingredients or leftovers!

I still remember the first time I served Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells at a family gathering and my aunt declared it “the best thing she’d ever tasted.” For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta Shells: Use large shells that can hold plenty of filling without breaking easily.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta gives that rich texture; opt for whole milk ricotta for the best flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella provides gooeyness; fresh mozzarella works wonders too if you prefer more depth. fresh salad pairing.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a salty kick; always choose freshly grated for better flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or make homemade for an extra touch of love.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil elevates the dish’s aroma and flavor; don’t skip it if you love Italian vibes!
Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential for seasoning each layer perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish that’s big enough to fit all those glorious shells snugly together.

Cook the Shells: Boil salted water in a large pot and add the pasta shells. Cook until al dente, which means they should still have a slight bite, about 8-10 minutes. Drain them gently so they don’t break apart.

Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, grated parmesan, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Stir well until everything is blended nicely, just like stirring up good gossip!

Stuff Those Shells: Take each shell and fill it with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture. vegetarian side dish Place them seam-side up in your greased baking dish like little pasta soldiers ready for battle.

Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells until they are comfortably swimming in that delicious red goodness. Top with remaining mozzarella and sprinkle more parmesan for that golden crust we all crave.

Bake It Up: Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and let it bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Savor Your Creation: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Garnish with extra fresh basil if you want to be fancy, it’s all about presentation!

This Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells recipe will have everyone asking you when you’re making it again, just be prepared to take requests! Enjoy every cheesy moment!

You Must Know

Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells can be a game-changer for busy weeknights.
The creamy texture and gooey cheese will make everyone ask for seconds.
Don’t forget to add some herbs for extra flavor; they elevate the dish beautifully!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente, then prepare your sauce while they cook. Assemble everything in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for the best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ricotta for cottage cheese or add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Extra spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning can also enhance the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten up the dish.
Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should still have a bite before baking.
Adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top creates a delightful crunch when baked.

I once made these Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells for a family gathering, and they vanished faster than I could say “seconds!” Everyone kept asking for my secret—let’s just say it was love and a generous helping of cheese. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

FAQ

Can I freeze Cheesy Baked Pasta Shells?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking; just cover tightly with foil.

What kind of cheese works best?

Mozzarella and ricotta are classic choices for creamy richness and meltiness.

How long do I bake them?

Bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

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📖 Recipe Card