Shells With Sausage Recipe

Cooking Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the Pasta

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. 2

   Prepare the Sausage

   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.

3. 3

   Add Garlic and Seasonings

   Minced the garlic and add it to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. 4

   Mix in the Cheeses

   Remove the skillet from heat. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage and garlic mixture with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir in the fresh basil.

5. 5

   Stuff the Shells

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese and sausage mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.

6. 6

   Add Marinara Sauce

   Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

7. 7

   Bake

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

8. 8

   Serve

   Let the shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.