Stuffed Shells Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting plate of Stuffed Shells fresh out of the oven. The combination of tender pasta shells, creamy ricotta filling, and rich marinara sauce creates a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

I first made this recipe on a chilly Sunday evening when I wanted something warm and hearty but still easy enough to prepare. One bite, and I was hooked—cheesy, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week ahead.

Why You'll Love This Stuffed Shells Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this classic Italian-inspired dish. Stuffed Shells are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

First, it's a comfort food dream come true. The combination of pasta, cheese, and sauce is unbeatable when you're craving something cozy and filling.

Second, it's great for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the dish in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply bake when you're ready to eat. It also freezes beautifully!

Third, this recipe is budget-friendly. With just a few pantry staples like pasta, ricotta, and marinara sauce, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home without spending a fortune.

Finally, it's versatile and customizable. Whether you want to add ground beef, spinach, or different cheeses, there are countless ways to make this dish your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Stuffed Shells recipe lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

The jumbo pasta shells serve as the vessel for all the delicious filling. Be sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue softening in the oven.

For the filling, ricotta cheese is the star. Its mild, creamy texture makes the perfect base. I like to mix it with mozzarella for extra gooeyness and Parmesan for a sharp, nutty depth of flavor.

A good marinara sauce ties everything together. You can use a store-bought version for convenience or make your own with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a homemade touch.

Fresh herbs and seasonings make a big difference. I always add a bit of fresh basil or parsley for brightness and black pepper for a subtle kick.

Lastly, while not essential, an egg helps bind the cheese mixture together, creating a slightly firmer filling once baked.

How To Make This Stuffed Shells Recipe

Creating these mouthwatering Stuffed Shells is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a perfect dish every time.

Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until they are just al dente. Drain and let them cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.

While the pasta cooks, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, a beaten egg, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy.

Next, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. This prevents the shells from sticking and infuses the dish with extra flavor.

Now comes the fun part—stuffing the shells! Take each shell and spoon in the cheese mixture, being careful not to overfill. Arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish.

Once all the shells are stuffed, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden, bubbly finish.

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Storage Options

Stuffed Shells are perfect for leftovers! If you have extra, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze the shells in a freezer-safe dish before baking. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

Reheating is easy—just warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, so feel free to get creative!

For a meaty version, add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken to the ricotta mixture for a heartier meal.

If you want to sneak in some veggies, stir in chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.

Not a fan of ricotta? Try substituting it with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a slightly different texture and taste.

For a spicier twist, use a spicy arrabbiata sauce instead of traditional marinara to add a little heat.

Lastly, if you need a gluten-free option, simply swap in gluten-free pasta shells—the rest of the recipe remains the same!

No matter how you make it, Stuffed Shells is a dish that’s sure to bring smiles to your dinner table. Enjoy!

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