Easy Stuffed Shells Recipe: The Cheesy Comfort Food You’ve Been Craving
Stuffed shells are one of those magical dishes that feel fancy but are shockingly easy to make. Whether cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy meal, stuffed shells deliver great comfort and flavor.
This recipe is straightforward, customizable, and sure to become one of your go-to meals. Plus, it’s loaded with cheesy goodness and hearty marinara sauce—what’s not to love?
Let’s dive right in, shall we?
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this comforting dish. Don’t worry; the ingredients are simple and flexible.
| For the Shells | For the Filling | For the Sauce & Topping |
|---|---|---|
| 12 oz jumbo pasta shells | 2 cups ricotta cheese | 3 cups marinara sauce |
| 1 cup shredded mozzarella | 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (topping) | |
| 1/2 cup grated Parmesan | Optional: fresh basil for garnish | |
| 1 large egg | ||
| 1 tsp garlic powder | ||
| 1 tsp dried parsley | ||
| Optional: 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped finely |
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Baking dish or casserole dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or piping bag for filling shells
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions, but shave a minute or two off the cooking time—they should be al dente to hold their shape while baking. Drain and rinse them with cool water to stop the cooking process and keep them from sticking together.
Make the Filling
Combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, an egg, garlic powder, and dried parsley in a mixing bowl. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped cooked spinach for an extra layer of flavor. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Dish
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of your baking dish. Carefully stuff each shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag. Don’t worry about making them look perfect—the more rustic, the better!
Nestle the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh basil or a little extra Parmesan. Serve alongside a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the shells. They should be firm enough to hold their shape when stuffed.
- Use quality marinara sauce. Whether store-bought or homemade, a flavorful sauce makes all the difference.
- Customize to your heart’s content. Add ground sausage, cooked chicken, or extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to the filling.
Variations
| Variation | How to Adjust |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian | Stick with the cheese filling or load up on veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even roasted red peppers. |
| Meat-Lover’s | Mix cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken into the cheese filling. |
| Gluten-Free | Swap regular jumbo shells for gluten-free pasta shells, and double-check your marinara sauce and cheese for gluten-free certifications. |
| Dairy-Free | Use plant-based ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan alternatives. They’re widely available at most grocery stores these days. |
FAQs
Q: Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes, stuffed shells freeze beautifully! Assemble them in a freezer-safe dish, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze them for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Q: What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
No ricotta? No problem! Cottage cheese makes a great substitute. Blend it in a food processor for a smoother texture.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: What should I serve with stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells pair perfectly with a fresh side salad, crusty garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Assemble the shells (baked or unbaked) and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven to keep the shells moist and the cheese gooey.
Final Thoughts
This easy stuffed shells recipe is a surefire way to bring a little joy to your dinner table. It’s versatile, forgiving, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you feed a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this dish delivers every time.
Now, it’s your turn! Grab your ingredients, get cooking, and make your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria. Have your own twist on stuffed shells? Share your creations—I’d love to see how you make this recipe your own!
