Description
- Discover how to make Baked Jumbo Shells with Tomato Pesto Sauce and Cheesy Ricotta Filling—comforting, creamy, and delicious
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 regular or heirloom tomatoes, quartered
- 1 yellow onion, quartered
- 6 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
- 3/4 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup shredded or torn mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine the quartered tomatoes, onion, garlic, thyme, butter, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. Roast in the oven for 20-30 minutes or until the tomatoes start to char and release their juices.
- Using an immersion blender or food processor, puree the roasted vegetables and herbs until smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add the heavy cream and blend again. Return the sauce to the baking dish.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, provolone cheese, and 1/2 cup of basil pesto.
- To assemble, spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture into each pasta shell. Place the stuffed shells into the baking dish filled with tomato sauce. Pour the remaining pesto over the shells and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
- Details: This dish combines rich, creamy cheese-filled pasta shells with a flavorful roasted tomato pesto sauce for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 560 kcal per serving
Keywords: #PastaLovers #ComfortFood #CheesyGoodness #EasyRecipes #HomeCooking #DinnerInspo