Fazoli's Stuffed Pasta Bake (Copycat Recipe)

This comforting and hearty stuffed pasta bake captures the essence of Fazoli's beloved dish. Featuring tender pasta shells filled with a rich blend of cheeses and savory ground beef, all enveloped in a zesty marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, this recipe is perfect for family dinners. It's a classic Italian-American dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Ingredients:

• 12 large pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and beef mixture, placing them in a greased baking dish.
6. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.