- Cook the Pasta Shells:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, dried basil, and oregano, and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Stuff the Shells:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a layer of the prepared marinara sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
- Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove the stuffed shells from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve the stuffed shells hot, with extra marinara sauce on the side if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
- Freezing: These stuffed shells freeze well. Prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover tightly and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
- Variations: Customize the filling by adding cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
Enjoy your homemade Italian stuffed shells! This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or anytime you crave a hearty, cheesy meal.