PIRATE PASTA SHELLS

Pirate Pasta Shells image

Grandfather loved pirate stories and good pasta. When we make his stuffed shells, it reminds us of his favorite tropical places and adventures. -Kathy Noll, Laureldale, Pennsylvania

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 55m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

1 package (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
3 logs (11 ounces each) fresh goat cheese or 2 cartons (15 ounces each) whole-milk ricotta cheese
1 cup minced fresh basil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
Zucchini strips, optional
Additional marinara sauce, optional

Steps:

Preheat oven to 425°. Cook pasta shells according to package directions for al dente; drain., Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix goat cheese, basil, Parmesan cheese, garlic and salt. Spread 1-1/4 cups marinara sauce into a greased 13x9-in. baking dish., Fill each shell with 1 rounded tablespoon cheese mixture; arrange over sauce. Pour remaining sauce over shells. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. If desired, make X's over the top using crisscrossed zucchini strips., Bake, covered, 25 minutes. Bake, uncovered, 5-10 minutes longer or until heated through and cheese is melted. If desired, warm additional sauce and serve with shells.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 305 calories, Fat 13g fat (8g saturated fat), Cholesterol 61mg cholesterol, Sodium 762mg sodium, Carbohydrate 29g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 16g protein.