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Homemade Olive Garden Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells: Easy Restaurant-Quality Pasta at Home photo

Olive Garden Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells: Easy Restaurant-Quality Pasta at Home

This Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells recipe is a comforting Italian classic! Enjoy creamy ricotta and rich marinara in your own kitchen.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Comfort Food, Easy, Pasta
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells:

  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 2 teaspoons butter
  • 15 pieces jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups full-fat ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup Italian blend shredded cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 4 ounces heavy cream
  • 3 ounces butter
  • 3 ounces shredded parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Instructions

  • Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Step 2: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, add jumbo pasta shells, and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, Italian blend cheese, and egg until well mixed.
  • Step 4: Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture and place them seam-side up in a greased baking dish.
  • Step 5: In a saucepan, melt butter, add marinara sauce and heavy cream, stirring until well blended.
  • Step 6: Pour half of the sauce over the shells, sprinkle with parmesan, then pour remaining sauce over the top.
  • Step 7: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  • Step 8: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • Whisk
  • Cooking spoon
  • Oven

Notes

  • For extra flavor, try adding sautéed vegetables to the filling.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing is possible; wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.