Stuffed shells are a comforting and hearty Italian-American dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich ricotta cheese mixture, covered in marinara sauce, and baked to perfection. This dish is a perfect option for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions, bringing together creamy cheese, savory tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy – The ricotta filling is smooth, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Easy to Prepare – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a great recipe for home cooks of any skill level.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make it ahead of time and bake when ready.
Great for Crowds – This dish is ideal for serving guests or bringing to gatherings.
Customizable – Add meat, veggies, or different cheeses to tailor it to your preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Jumbo pasta shells
Ricotta cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Egg
Garlic
Italian seasoning
Fresh basil or parsley
Salt and pepper
Marinara sauce

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture and arrange them in the dish.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Meaty Version – Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken to the ricotta mixture.
Veggie Twist – Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients.
Cheese Blend – Try a mix of provolone, fontina, or asiago for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
Alfredo Style – Swap marinara for Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked stuffed shells in a covered dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through.

FAQs

How do I keep the shells from breaking?

Cook them al dente and handle them gently when filling. Rinse with cool water to prevent sticking.

Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese works as a substitute, but it has a slightly different texture. Blend it for a smoother consistency.

What’s the best way to fill the shells?

Use a spoon or a piping bag for a mess-free filling process.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.

How do I prevent watery stuffed shells?

Drain ricotta well and avoid adding too much sauce before baking.

Can I add spinach without cooking it first?

Yes, finely chopped fresh spinach can be mixed directly into the ricotta filling.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells if available.

Can I bake frozen stuffed shells?

Yes, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about an hour, covered with foil.

What side dishes go well with stuffed shells?

Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Classic stuffed shells are a timeless, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you enjoy them as a weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal, their cheesy goodness and rich flavor make them a family favorite. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy this delicious homemade dish!