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Cheesy Sausage Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe Perfect for Dinner

cheesy sausage ricotta stuffed shells - featured image

These cheesy sausage ricotta stuffed shells are packed with creamy ricotta cheese, perfectly seasoned sausage, and topped with layers of melty mozzarella. A comforting and indulgent dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2025 jumbo pasta shells, cooked al dente
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, crumbled and cooked
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the crumbled Italian sausage until browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and cooled sausage mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and sausage mixture. Be generous but careful to avoid overfilling.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of your baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce.
  6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they’re completely covered. Sprinkle the reserved shredded mozzarella on top.
  7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  8. Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta shells to ensure they hold their shape when stuffed. Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. Let the sausage cool before mixing it into the ricotta to avoid a runny filling.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy stuffed shells, ricotta stuffed shells, sausage stuffed shells, Italian comfort food, family dinner recipe