Italian Stuffed Shells are a classic, hearty dish that brings the warmth and flavors of Italy straight to your table. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy, seasoned ricotta mixture, nestled in rich marinara sauce, and topped with gooey melted mozzarella cheese. This comforting meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, or when you’re craving a taste of Italian cuisine.
With its balance of textures and flavors, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. The filling is rich and creamy, the sauce is flavorful, and the baked cheese on top adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether served as a main course or alongside a crisp salad, Italian Stuffed Shells are sure to delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Rich and Cheesy: A creamy ricotta filling paired with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Simple yet Elegant: A dish that’s easy to make but feels fancy enough for special occasions.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a guaranteed hit!
Ingredients
• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
3. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
1. Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, ensuring they are generously stuffed.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
1. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, seam side up, in a single layer.
3. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring the shells are fully covered.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake
1. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells.
2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
1. Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor, if desired.
Tips
• Perfect Pasta: Avoid overcooking the shells as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Customizable: Add cooked spinach or crumbled sausage to the filling for extra flavor.
• Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the dish ahead of time, cover tightly, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the baking time.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions or the entire dish for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of these Italian Stuffed Shells. With their creamy filling, savory marinara, and bubbling cheese, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Buon appetito!
