Baked Shells And Meatball Casserole Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Shells And Meatball Casserole

• 1.5 pounds pre-made meatballs (or homemade – your recipe!)
• Shell Pasta
• Ricotta Cheese
• 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Spaghetti Sauce
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Baked Shells And Meatball Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
3. If using frozen meatballs, thaw completely. Brown meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until lightly browned (optional step).
4. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well.
5. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
7. Layer half of the cooked pasta shells over the sauce.
8. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta.
9. Top with all the meatballs.
10. Layer with the remaining pasta shells.
11. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top layer of pasta.
12. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
13. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.