Cheese-Stuffed Pasta Shells and Garlic Bread

Introduction

If comfort food had a crown, Cheese-Stuffed Pasta Shells and Garlic Bread would wear it proudly. I still remember the first time I made this—on a chilly Sunday, craving something cozy. The pasta shells, overflowing with a rich, creamy cheese filling, nestled in zesty marinara sauce and topped with bubbling mozzarella, feel like a warm hug. Paired with crispy, buttery garlic bread, this dish is pure indulgence that still manages to feel homemade and wholesome. It’s a family favorite, easy to make ahead, and even better the next day!

Ingredients

For the Cheese-Stuffed Pasta Shells:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella, for topping

For the Garlic Bread:

• 1 loaf French or Italian bread, halved lengthwise
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Cheese-Stuffed Pasta Shells:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta Shells:
   Boil shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
   In a large bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Stuff the Shells:
   Fill each cooked shell with a heaping tablespoon of cheese mixture.
5. Assemble the Dish:
   Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish. Place stuffed shells on top. Pour remaining sauce over the shells and sprinkle with mozzarella.
6. Bake:
   Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 10–15 minutes more until bubbly and golden.

Garlic Bread:

1. Prepare the Butter:
   Mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and Parmesan (if using).
2. Assemble the Bread:
   Spread garlic butter evenly over both bread halves.
3. Bake:
   Place on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Slice and serve warm.

Tips & Tricks About Cheese-Stuffed Pasta Shells and Garlic Bread

• Make Ahead: Assemble shells and refrigerate up to a day ahead; bake when ready.
• Saucy Tip: Add a bit of cream to the marinara for a richer flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Try adding spinach or use a blend of Italian cheeses in the filling.
• Crispier Garlic Bread: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for an extra crunch.

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