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Hearty Stuffed Shells & Meatball Bake

Elevate your dinner routine with this Hearty Stuffed Shells & Meatball Bake that’s as comforting as it is delicious! Packed with gooey cheese, savory meatballs, and a rich marinara sauce, this dish promises to delight your taste buds. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, follow our simple steps and discover fun variations to make it your own.
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

12 pre-cooked meatballs (beef, turkey, or plant-based)

Extra mozzarella for topping

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    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 set aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

        Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture until they are generously filled.

          Layer the Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the filled shells on top of the sauce in a single layer.

            Add the Meatballs: Tuck the pre-cooked meatballs between the stuffed shells in the baking dish.

              Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the shells and meatballs. Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top to create a delicious cheesy crust.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

                  Let it Rest: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the bake in the dish, garnished with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley for added color. Offer extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who love it extra cheesy!