#Giant Stuffed Pasta Shells Delight 🧀🍝
**Time**
🔹 Prep Time: 20 minutes
🔹 Bake Time: 30 minutes
🔹 Total Time: 50 minutes
##Introduction
Craving something comforting, cheesy and delicious? Try out these Giant Stuffed Pasta Shells that are perfect for a family dinner or for impressing guests.
##Why Make This Recipe
Overflowing with creamy goodness, every bite of these pasta shells is designed to satisfy your pasta cravings. Whether you are a newbie in the kitchen or a seasoned veteran, making these pasta shells is a breeze. Besides, who doesn’t love a plate full of pasta!
##How to Make Giant Stuffed Pasta Shells
##Ingredients:
– 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
##Directions:
1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
4. Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into each shell, arranging them snugly in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
6. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top, and bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy your giant stuffed pasta shells!
##How to Serve Giant Stuffed Pasta Shells
These pasta shells are great on their own or with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad.
##How to Store Giant Stuffed Pasta Shells
Store leftover shells in a covered container in the fridge, where they will keep for three to four days.
##Tips to Make Giant Stuffed Pasta Shells
For the best results, be sure not to overcook the shells – aim to remove them from the heat just before they reach the al dente stage, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
##Variation
If you prefer, you can substitute different types of cheese like gouda or gruyere for a unique flavor twist.
##FAQs
**Q1:** Can you make it with different types of pasta?
**A1:** Definitely, this recipe works well with large rigatoni or cannelloni tubes.
**Q2:** How do you reheat the pasta shells?
**A2:** It’s best to reheat in the oven on low heat to prevent the cheese from getting rubbery.
**Q3:** Can this dish be frozen?
**A3:** Absolutely, you can freeze the dish after baking but remember to put it in the oven straight from the freezer when you are ready to eat.
The cheesy, saucy delight of these pasta shells is sure to make any mealtime special. Dig in and savor every bite!