Pizza Stuffed Shells are a fun and flavorful twist on two family favorites: pizza and pasta. These jumbo pasta shells are filled with a cheesy, savory pizza-inspired mixture and topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. The filling can be customized with your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or bell peppers, making it a versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that brings the best of both worlds to the table.
Ingredients:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (or your favorite pizza toppings)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and mini pepperoni slices (or other toppings of choice). Stir until well combined.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your Pizza Stuffed Shells, a delicious and comforting combination of pizza and pasta flavors all in one dish!
