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Olive Garden Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells – Copycat Recipe
Olive Garden Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells – Copycat Recipe
Indulge in these rich and creamy Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells, inspired by Olive Garden’s classic dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these shells are filled with a delightful blend of cheeses and topped with marinara sauce. A comforting and satisfying meal that brings a taste of Italy to your table!
Recipe Details
| Prep Time | |
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| Cook Time | |
| Total Time | |
| Servings | 4 servings |
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.
Nutrition Information
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g fat |
| Carbohydrates | 45g carbohydrates |
| Protein | 25g protein |
Handy Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or spinach to the cheese mixture.
- You can prepare the dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor, such as adding fontina or gouda.
Ingredient Swaps
- Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese can be used as a lower-fat alternative.
- Pasta Shells: Any large pasta shape can work, like manicotti or even large conchiglie.
- Marinara Sauce: Homemade tomato sauce can add an extra layer of flavor.