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Herb Butter Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a delightful combination of creamy ricotta, aromatic herbs, and rich butter, all nestled within tender pasta shells. This dish brings comfort food to a new level, offering a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that will satisfy any craving.

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