Introduction:
Dinner time is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal with family and friends. If you’re tired of the same old pasta dishes and looking for something new, Creamy Spicy Unstuffed Shells with Fluffy Ricotta should definitely be on your list. This dish is a delightful twist on traditional stuffed pasta shells, packed with bold flavors, creamy textures, and a spicy kick that everyone will love. It combines the richness of ricotta cheese with a spicy marinara sauce and tender pasta shells – minus the stuffing, which makes it a quicker and easier meal to prepare without sacrificing taste.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to make this delicious dish and share some tips to make it perfect every time.
Table of Contents
What Is This Recipe and Why You’ll Love It?
Creamy Spicy Unstuffed Shells with Fluffy Ricotta is an innovative take on classic stuffed pasta. Instead of spending time stuffing individual shells, this dish uses unstuffed pasta shells that are baked in a creamy spicy sauce. The dish features a combination of fluffy ricotta cheese, a tangy marinara sauce, and spices that bring out an unforgettable flavor. It’s a satisfying dinner that doesn’t require complicated preparation, yet delivers an impressive result.
This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys pasta dishes with a creamy, cheesy filling and a bit of spice. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – you can make it as mild or as spicy as you prefer, and it’s an easy meal that works for busy weeknights or special occasions.
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
The uniqueness of Creamy Spicy Unstuffed Shells with Fluffy Ricotta lies in the concept of “unstuffed” pasta. Rather than taking the time to stuff each shell with cheese, you simply cook the shells and mix them with the creamy ricotta sauce. This approach not only saves you time but also ensures that the flavor of the ricotta and sauce is evenly distributed across every bite.
The addition of spicy marinara sauce gives this dish a little kick, which complements the rich and fluffy ricotta cheese perfectly. The creamy texture and bold flavors come together in a way that elevates this meal to the next level.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings | 4 servings |
Key Features:
- Quick and Easy: You don’t have to worry about stuffing pasta shells, making this dish much faster to prepare.
- Rich and Creamy: The ricotta cheese provides a fluffy texture that pairs wonderfully with the spicy marinara sauce.
- Customizable Spice Level: You can adjust the amount of spice based on your preferences, making it perfect for both mild and spicy lovers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is versatile and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Creamy Spicy Unstuffed Shells with Fluffy Ricotta, you will need:
- 16 large pasta shells
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (spicy variety if desired)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to spice level)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (full-fat or part-skim)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Directions with 5 Steps:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Cook the large pasta shells following the package directions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Spicy Sauce
Warm olive oil in a spacious pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and add the red pepper flakes. Stir well and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Ricotta Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the spicy marinara sauce. Add the cooked pasta shells on top, then pour the ricotta mixture over the shells. Gently toss the pasta in the ricotta mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Nutrition Facts:
(Per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Total Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 750mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 15g |
Pro Tips for a Perfect Dish:
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the pasta shells to al dente ensures that they don’t become too soft and mushy when baked in the sauce.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the red pepper flakes or use a mild marinara sauce. For more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or use a spicier marinara sauce.
- Use Fresh Ricotta: Fresh ricotta cheese will add an extra creamy texture to the dish. If possible, choose ricotta from a local deli or grocery store for the best flavor.
- Add Vegetables: If you want to make the dish even heartier, you can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the ricotta mixture.
- Top with Fresh Basil: Fresh basil not only adds color to the dish but also enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, if you prefer a different cheese, you can use cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even cream cheese as a substitute for ricotta.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Feel free to prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it overnight for convenience. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free.
4. Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, this dish can be frozen before baking. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it heats thoroughly.
5. What can I serve this with?
Creamy Spicy Unstuffed Shells with Fluffy Ricotta pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
You’ll Also Love:
- Spaghetti Bolognese with Parmesan: A classic pasta dish with rich meat sauce and Parmesan cheese.
- Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells: Another stuffed shell variation, this one packed with creamy spinach and artichoke filling.
- Baked Ziti with Meatballs: A hearty baked pasta dish, perfect for feeding a crowd.
Conclusion:
Creamy Spicy Unstuffed Shells with Fluffy Ricotta is a comforting and flavorful dish that offers a delightful twist on classic pasta. With its rich, creamy sauce and a spicy kick, it’s the perfect dinner for any occasion. The best part? It’s quick and easy to prepare, without compromising on taste. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Give it a try, and experience the creamy, spicy flavors in every bite. Don’t forget to share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram – we can’t wait to see your unique take on this delicious meal!