Easy Stuffed Shells

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If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make, stuffed shells are the perfect dish to add to your dinner rotation. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture of ricotta or cottage cheese, Parmesan, fresh herbs, and garlic, then baked in marinara sauce until bubbly and golden. This classic Italian-inspired dish is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions.

Not only are stuffed shells delicious, but they’re also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them by adding spinach, ground meat, or even a touch of spice. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and freezer-friendly, making them a great option for busy weeknights.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the best stuffed shells recipe, including expert tips, ingredient variations, and serving suggestions to elevate your dish. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced home chef, this stuffed shells recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Shells Recipe

1. Easy to Make

This stuffed shells recipe requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of baking, you can have a restaurant-quality meal at home.

2. Rich, Creamy, and Flavorful

The combination of ricotta (or cottage cheese), Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, and fresh herbs creates an indulgent, cheesy filling that pairs perfectly with the tangy marinara sauce.

3. Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly

These stuffed shells can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. This makes them perfect for meal prep or hosting guests without last-minute stress.

4. Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish. Plus, you can easily sneak in extra veggies or protein for a well-balanced meal.

5. Customizable

Stuffed shells can be adapted to suit different tastes. Try adding:

• Spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Cooked sausage or ground beef for added protein.
• Mushrooms or bell peppers for a vegetarian twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stuffed Shells:

• 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 30 ounces whipped cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
• 6 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg
• 1 to 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
• ¾ cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped (about 8 to 10 leaves)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 28 ounces marinara sauce
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the dish. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until 3 minutes shy of al dente, following the package instructions.
3. Drain the shells and rinse them with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine whipped cottage cheese or ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir the mixture until smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

1. Use a spoon to fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture.
2. Nestle the stuffed shells into the marinara sauce in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Add the Sauce and Cheese

1. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
2. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with extra fresh basil or parsley for a finishing touch.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells

• Don’t overcook the pasta shells – They should be slightly undercooked since they will finish cooking in the oven.
• Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
• Make it extra cheesy by adding shredded provolone or Asiago cheese to the filling.
• For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.

What to Serve with Stuffed Shells

Pair your stuffed shells with these delicious side dishes:

• Garlic Bread – A classic pairing to soak up the extra sauce.
• Caesar Salad – Adds a crisp, fresh contrast to the cheesy goodness.
• Roasted Vegetables – Try zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
• Minestrone Soup – A warm and comforting starter.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Freezing:

• Assemble the stuffed shells but don’t bake them.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Stuffed Shells Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I Use Store-Bought Marinara Sauce?

Absolutely! Choose a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own from scratch.

What’s the Best Cheese for Stuffed Shells?

Ricotta is traditional, but cottage cheese works as a great lighter alternative.

Can I Add Meat to This Recipe?

Yes! Try adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken for a protein boost.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Stuffed Shells Recipe is the perfect comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy filling with a delicious marinara sauce. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these stuffed shells are sure to impress!

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Pin this for later and share it with friends!

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