Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious, family-friendly dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with a comforting, hearty feel, baked stuffed shells are the perfect option. Packed with a cheesy, herby filling and topped with a mouthwatering marinara sauce, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Read on to discover everything you need to know about making the perfect baked stuffed shells, from the ingredients to expert tips and tricks.

What are Baked Stuffed Shells?

Baked stuffed shells are a classic Italian-American pasta dish that features large pasta shells (known as conchiglioni) stuffed with a rich filling, usually made of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and a combination of herbs like parsley or basil. These stuffed shells are then baked in the oven, smothered in marinara sauce, and often topped with extra cheese for that irresistible golden, bubbly crust. This dish is not only filling and flavorful but also highly customizable, making it a go-to for family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients List for Baked Stuffed Shells

Before diving into the step-by-step guide, it's important to gather all your ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for the filling, the sauce, and the topping.

Ingredients for the Shells and Filling:

• Jumbo pasta shells – 20 to 25 large shells
• Ricotta cheese – 2 cups (whole or part-skim, depending on your preference)
• Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups shredded (plus extra for topping)
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup grated
• Eggs – 1 large egg (to bind the filling)
• Fresh parsley – ¼ cup chopped (or basil for a flavor variation)
• Garlic – 2 cloves minced (optional for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper – to taste

Ingredients for the Sauce and Topping:

• Marinara sauce – 3 cups (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (to grease the baking dish)
• Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon (optional for sprinkling on top)
• Fresh basil – For garnish (optional)

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best aspects of baked stuffed shells is how versatile they can be. You can easily modify the recipe to suit dietary needs or personal preferences.

• Cheese Substitutions: While ricotta is the traditional choice for the filling, you can swap it for cottage cheese for a lighter option. You can also use other cheeses like mascarpone or cream cheese for a richer filling.
• Add Vegetables: Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Spinach, kale, or sautéed mushrooms can be mixed into the cheese filling for added nutrition and flavor.
• Meat Lovers: For a heartier meal, add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded chicken to the filling. This transforms the dish into a more substantial entrée.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta shells to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
• Sauce Variations: Marinara sauce is classic, but you can also experiment with other sauces like Alfredo, pesto, or even a creamy tomato-basil sauce to change up the flavor profile.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

To make the best baked stuffed shells, follow these detailed instructions. With careful attention to each step, you'll end up with a beautifully cooked, cheesy, and flavorful dish.

Step 1: Cook the Jumbo Pasta Shells

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them for about 9-10 minutes, or until they're al dente. Be careful not to overcook them since they'll continue cooking in the oven later. Once done, drain the shells and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Crack in the egg, then add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and well-blended. The egg will help bind the filling, ensuring it stays inside the shells during baking.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Once your pasta shells have cooled enough to handle, it's time to stuff them. Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each shell with about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. Make sure they’re well-packed but not overflowing, so the filling stays intact during baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of the dish to create a flavorful base for the shells.

Step 5: Arrange the Stuffed Shells

Place the stuffed shells into the baking dish, open side up. Line them up closely but not too tightly, as they'll expand slightly while baking. Once all the shells are arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of them, ensuring each shell gets covered with sauce.

Step 6: Add Extra Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the stuffed shells with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. For an added flavor boost, sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the top. Cover the dish with foil (to prevent the cheese from burning) and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with golden spots.

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How to Cook Baked Stuffed Shells: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking baked stuffed shells is a relatively simple process once you have all your ingredients prepared. Here’s a quick recap:

1. Boil pasta: Cook until al dente.
2. Make the filling: Combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and herbs.
3. Stuff the shells: Fill each shell with the cheese mixture.
4. Prepare the baking dish: Layer with marinara sauce and arrange stuffed shells.
5. Top with sauce and cheese: Pour remaining sauce over and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake: First covered with foil, then uncovered for a golden finish.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a straightforward recipe, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: Boiling the shells for too long can result in them becoming too soft, making them difficult to handle and prone to falling apart during stuffing and baking.
• Skipping the egg: The egg in the cheese filling acts as a binder. Without it, your filling might become runny and ooze out of the shells during baking.
• Not enough sauce: Make sure to cover the shells well with sauce to prevent them from drying out in the oven. The sauce also helps keep the dish moist and flavorful.
• Crowding the baking dish: Give the shells a little room to expand and for the sauce to circulate. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate your baked stuffed shells from a simple meal to an impressive dish for entertaining. Here are some tips for serving and presentation:

How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shells

• Portioning: Serve 3 to 4 shells per person for a main course. If serving as a side, 2 shells per person should suffice.
• Pairing: Complement the dish with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. A crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the stuffed shells perfectly.

Presentation Ideas for Baked Stuffed Shells

• Garnish: Add fresh basil or parsley leaves on top before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve in individual dishes: For a more refined presentation, consider baking the stuffed shells in individual ramekins.
• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top at the table for added flavor and texture.

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Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.
• Freezing: Baked stuffed shells freeze well. Assemble them in a baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Extra sauce: If you love extra sauce, serve with additional warmed marinara on the side.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make baked stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

2. Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Absolutely. Assemble the shells, freeze them in an airtight container, and when ready, thaw and bake as usual.

3. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a creamier texture.

4. Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or chicken to the cheese filling for a heartier dish.

5. How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

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Conclusion

Baked stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort food—a perfect blend of cheesy filling, savory marinara, and tender pasta. Whether you're making this dish for a cozy family dinner or prepping it for a special occasion, it's sure to please everyone around the table. Don't forget to experiment with different fillings and sauces to make this classic dish your own. Happy cooking!

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