Easy-peasy weeknight meals have been the name of the game lately. And for more than one reason too! With my house a little more full than usual, the last two and a half months of school upon us, and birthday season on the horizon… it’s all I can do to stay above water anymore! These Skinny Pesto & Ricotta Stuffed Shells are made with just a handful of ingredients and couldn’t be more easy to make.

Just because they’re simple, doesn’t mean they’re lacking flavor either. Oh-no. Not these shells. As we’re coming into Spring, we’re coming into fresh basil a plenty. My backyard tends to get taken over by basil to the point that I tend to run out of things to do with it. I’m not complaining about that though. Bring on the basil!

With the shells cooked, you just mix the cheese and pesto and stuff those bad boys before baking for a few minutes in the oven. See? Told you they were easy! Easy. Cheesy. And simple as they come. I love this dish for a quick weeknight dinner, because it’s just that. A super quick dinner that the whole family will love. Yep! Even the kiddos.

I like to make my own pesto with my own basil. But. If you don’t have time for it, any lightened up pesto will do the trick here. The same thing goes for the sauce. Store-bought or homemade, either way, you’re going to love the end result.

So, there you have it folks! Serve with a small Italian side salad, some crunchy Italian bread, and call it done.

Looking for an extra kick? Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top. Wanting to brighten and elevate the dish further? Try some chopped fresh basil on top.

Step-by-Step Photos:

Nutritional Claims: Balanced • Sugar Conscious • Kidney Friendly • Vegetarian • Pescatarian • Egg Free • Peanut Free • Soy Free • Fish Free • Shellfish Free • Pork Free • Red Meat Free • Crustacean Free • Celery Free • Mustard Free • Sesame Free • Lupine Free • Mollusk Free •Alcohol Free • No Sugar Added • Sulphite Free • Kosher