Imagine the joy of digging into a dish of Cheese-Filled Jumbo Shells, each shell bursting with gooey, cheesy goodness and savory flavors. This recipe elevates the humble pasta shell with a rich and creamy cheese filling that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Perfect for cozy nights in or special gatherings with loved ones, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
**Cheese Filled Jumbo Shells**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 box jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Take a baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
5. Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag, depending on your preference.
6. Place the filled shells into the baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
7. Once all the shells are filled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring each shell is coated.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to lightly brown the cheese on top.
10. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
12. Serve the Cheese-Filled Jumbo Shells hot and enjoy the cheesy, flavorful goodness with your loved ones.
These Cheese-Filled Jumbo Shells are a delightful and comforting dish that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal to enjoy on a chilly evening or a crowd-pleaser for a gathering, this recipe is a winner. Embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of this classic pasta dish and make it a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
