Stuffed Shells Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a plate of stuffed shells fresh out of the oven. The sight of bubbling marinara sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and golden, melted cheese makes this dish an instant favorite. Whether you're serving a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, these stuffed shells are sure to satisfy.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with stuffed shells at a family gathering, where my aunt served them as her signature dish. Since then, I've been perfecting my own version, adding little tweaks to make it just right. The best part? This recipe is surprisingly simple, yet feels like a restaurant-quality meal.

Why You'll Love This Stuffed Shells Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to pasta dish. These stuffed shells are a delicious, comforting meal that will have everyone at the table coming back for seconds.

First off, it's easy to make. While it may look impressive, the process is straightforward—just cook, fill, and bake. Even beginner cooks can master it with ease.

It's also perfect for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time and freeze it for later. When you're ready, just pop it in the oven for a hassle-free dinner.

Not to mention, this dish is budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients like pasta, ricotta, and marinara sauce, you can feed a family without breaking the bank.

Finally, it's versatile. Whether you're looking for a vegetarian option, a meaty variation, or a different cheese blend, this recipe can be customized to your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this stuffed shells recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Every component works together to create a rich and satisfying dish.

The jumbo pasta shells are the foundation of the dish. Be sure to cook them al dente—slightly firm—so they don’t break when filling them.

For the filling, ricotta cheese is the star. It creates that signature creamy texture. I like to mix it with mozzarella and Parmesan for extra cheesiness and depth of flavor.

A good marinara sauce makes all the difference. You can use store-bought for convenience, but if you have time, a homemade sauce adds a fresh, robust taste that takes this dish to another level.

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil and parsley enhances the overall flavor, adding a fresh contrast to the rich cheese filling and tomato sauce.

You'll also need a baking dish to layer everything together. A 9x13-inch dish works perfectly for holding the shells snugly in place.

How To Make This Stuffed Shells Recipe

Making these stuffed shells is simpler than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until just al dente. Drain and set them aside to cool slightly so they are easier to handle.

Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, an egg, minced garlic, and fresh herbs. Stir until everything is well incorporated.

Next, spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. This prevents the shells from sticking and adds a delicious base of flavor.

Fill each shell with a generous spoonful of the ricotta mixture, then arrange them in the baking dish. Spoon more marinara sauce over the top, ensuring each shell is covered. Finish with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

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

Once out of the oven, let the shells rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy!

Storage Options

These stuffed shells store beautifully, making them great for leftovers or meal prep.

To refrigerate, place leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until heated through.

For freezing, prepare the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This stuffed shells recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some fun ways to change it up:

Want more protein? Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken to the ricotta filling for a heartier dish.

Looking for a veggie boost? Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to sneak in extra nutrients.

Prefer a different cheese combo? Swap out ricotta for cottage cheese or mascarpone, or use a mix of cheddar and provolone for a unique twist.

Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta shells, and make sure your marinara sauce is certified gluten-free.

No eggs? Simply leave it out, and the filling will still hold together beautifully.

However you customize it, this dish is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!

Print