If you’re in the mood for a warm, comforting dish that’s sure to please both family and friends, look no further than a delicious Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake. This dish combines the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese with flavorful marinara and the satisfying bite of jumbo pasta shells. It’s a recipe that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart. Get ready to savor each cheesy, gooey bite as you make this dish a new favorite in your household.
Why We Love This Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake Recipe
This Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake stands out due to its incredible versatility and ease of preparation. Ideal for weeknight dinners, it brings together simple ingredients to create a meal that feels special. The dish blends creamy ricotta with fresh spinach and aromatic garlic, all enveloped in tender pasta shells and baked under a blanket of melted mozzarella. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is a go-to that never disappoints. It’s perfect for any occasion, and the combination of flavors and textures makes it truly satisfying.
Ingredients about Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake
To make this delightful Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach (cooked and chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake Directions
Creating this Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake is straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s how you can do it, step by step.
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pasta bake cooks evenly and the cheese gets beautifully melted.
- Prepare the Pasta Shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This typically means boiling them for about 8-10 minutes. Drain the shells and let them cool slightly. This step is crucial to prevent them from bursting when you stuff them.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, cooked and chopped spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, creating a rich and creamy filling. Tasting the mixture at this point can provide an opportunity to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Stuff the Pasta Shells: Take each cooled pasta shell and fill it generously with the cheese mixture you just prepared. Don’t be shy—fill them up! Place each stuffed shell open side up into a baking dish. This way, they are ready for their marinara bath.
- Layer the Marinara Sauce: Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce onto the bottom of your baking dish. This helps to prevent the pasta from sticking and adds flavor. Afterward, carefully arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Cover with Remaining Sauce: Once all the pasta shells are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Make sure to coat them nicely. To finish, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that gooey, cheesy finish.
- Bake the Pasta: Cover the baking dish with foil, making sure it’s secure to trap the moisture inside. Bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and allow the pasta bake to cook uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. This helps achieve the golden, bubbly cheese topping you’re craving.
- Cool and Serve: After baking, let the Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time ensures that the cheese firms up a bit, making serving easier and more appealing.
How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake
Serving Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake can be just as delightful as making it. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal experience:
- Garnish It Right: Consider garnishing with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. It brightens up the dish visually and adds a fresh hint to each bite.
- Pairing Ideas: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad. You can toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the pasta bake.
- Breadside Heroes: Don’t forget about bread! Serving alongside some crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls can make the meal even more satisfying. You’ll be glad to have some bread on hand to soak up the extra marinara sauce.
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, don’t worry! The flavor often improves as it sits, and reheating can lead to a wonderful and quick lunch or dinner option throughout the week.
Expert Tips: Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake
To ensure your Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake turns out perfectly, consider these expert tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for whole-milk ricotta and fresh mozzarella for the best results.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the fillings based on what you love. You can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even different cheeses like feta for a unique twist.
- Baking Dish Choice: A glass or ceramic baking dish works best because it retains heat well. Make sure your dish is deep enough to hold all those juicy stuffed shells.
- Monitor the Bake Time: Ovens vary in temperature. Keep an eye on your Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake, especially during the last few minutes, to avoid overcooking or burning the cheese.
- Let it Rest: Patience is key! Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the filling set, making slicing and serving easier.
How to Store Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake
Storing your Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake properly can help maintain its delicious quality:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the pasta bake. Make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Reheating Instructions: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil, and bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can uncover it for the last few minutes to get the cheese bubbly again.
Variation of Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake
One of the best aspects of Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake is its adaptability. Here are some tasty variations you might enjoy:
- Meat Lovers: For those who love meat, consider adding cooked ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage to the cheese mixture. This addition adds a heartiness that many will appreciate.
- Veggie-Bomb Variation: Increase the vegetable content by adding roasted zucchini, carrots, or even artichoke hearts to the cheese filling. This not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the overall flavor.
- Cheese Overload: If you can’t get enough cheese, mix in some ricotta with cream cheese or provolone. Experiment with different cheeses to find your perfect blend.
- Saucy Spin: Instead of marinara, choose a white sauce or pesto for a completely different flavor profile. A creamy Alfredo sauce can take this dish to the next level!
FAQ
What is Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake?
Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake is a comforting dish made with jumbo pasta shells filled with a mixture of cheeses, spinach, and herbs, all topped with marinara sauce and baked until bubbly.
How long does it take to make Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake?
The total time for making Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake is around 1 hour, including prep time and baking.
Can I prepare Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve alongside Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal.
How can I customize the filling for Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake?
You can customize the filling by adding cooked meat, other vegetables, or different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
- 3 cups marinara sauce Plus extra for topping
Cheese Filling
- 15 oz ricotta cheese Whole-milk ricotta recommended
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Plus extra for topping
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Flavorings and Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, cooked and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff each cooled pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them open side up in a baking dish.
Assembly
- Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce onto the bottom of the baking dish.
- Carefully arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Baking
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serving
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
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