Italian stuffed shells are a classic comfort dish that combines jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with melty mozzarella. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special family gathering, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deliciously comforting: Creamy, cheesy, and flavorful, this dish is the epitome of comfort food.
Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready.
Customizable: Add your favorite fillings or tweak the seasonings to suit your taste.
Perfect for gatherings: It’s easy to make a large batch for guests.

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
Fresh parsley or spinach
Garlic (minced)
Italian seasoning
Marinara sauce
Olive oil
Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, ½ cup of Parmesan, egg, parsley (or spinach), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
Stuff each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture and place them seam side up in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Protein-packed: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken to the ricotta mixture.
Vegetarian twist: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the filling for extra veggies.
Cheese lovers: Swap out some of the mozzarella for provolone or fontina cheese for a richer flavor.
Spicy version: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce or filling.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Assemble the stuffed shells without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when ready.

2. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought marinara works well, but feel free to use homemade if you prefer.

3. How do I keep the shells from sticking together?

After cooking the pasta, toss them with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

4. Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese is a good substitute, though the texture may be slightly different.

5. What sides pair well with this dish?

Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables complement stuffed shells beautifully.

6. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking, then remove it to brown the cheese.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.

8. Can I add more herbs to the filling?

Absolutely! Basil, oregano, or thyme can enhance the flavor.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger baking dish or divide the recipe into two dishes.

10. How do I know when it’s done baking?

The cheese should be bubbly, and the edges should be slightly golden.

Conclusion

Italian stuffed shells are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With creamy cheese, hearty marinara, and tender pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you make it ahead, customize it to your liking, or enjoy it fresh out of the oven, it’s a meal everyone will love. Give it a try and savor the flavors of Italy at home!