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In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming appeal of stuffed pasta. Among these, herb butter ricotta stuffed shells stand out for their creamy filling, aromatic herbs, and savory marinara sauce. This article delves into the details of crafting this delightful dish, exploring its flavors, textures, and the love that goes into making it. Whether you're preparing for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe promises to impress.

Herb Butter Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Delicious large pasta shells stuffed with herb-infused ricotta and a blend of cheeses, baked to perfection.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 5

Ingredients
  

  • 25.0 pieces large pasta shells
  • 1.5 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1.0 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2.0 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2.0 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2.0 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • 3.0 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4.0 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1.0 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 3.0 cups marinara sauce
  • 0.0 to taste salt and pepper
  • 0.0 as needed extra parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • 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 set aside.
  • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1.0-2.0 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the chopped parsley, basil, chives, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Add half of the herb butter, along with additional salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
  • Take a cooked pasta shell and fill it with about 1.0-2.0 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture. Repeat with all shells.
  • Spread about 1.0 cup of marinara sauce evenly along the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top and drizzle the remaining herb butter over them. Pour the remaining marinara sauce on top.
  • Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25.0 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10.0-15.0 minutes until the cheese is melted.
  • Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with extra chopped parsley or basil, and serve warm.

Notes

Feel free to use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own.
Keyword baked dish, cheese, pasta, stuffed shells