The smell of marinara sauce wafts through the air as I prepare my favorite comfort food: stuffed shells. The anticipation builds as I imagine sinking my fork into these plump pasta parcels filled with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella.
Every time I whip up this dish, it feels like a culinary hug from the universe. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, these stuffed shells never fail to impress. Plus, they’re so satisfying that even your pickiest eater will be asking for seconds.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These stuffed shells are not only easy to make but are also bursting with flavors that will excite your taste buds
- Their visual appeal makes them a perfect centerpiece for any table setting
- You can easily customize the filling based on dietary needs or personal preferences
- Ideal for meal prep, they reheat beautifully for quick lunches or dinners later in the week
One time, my grandma made these for Thanksgiving, and they were gone before I could even grab a plate!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Pasta Shells: Opt for high-quality jumbo shells that hold up well when cooked; they are essential for stuffing.
- Ricotta Cheese: Choose fresh ricotta for creamy filling; it creates that delightful texture you crave.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use good-quality mozzarella to ensure that cheesy stretch everyone loves.
- Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated Parmesan adds depth and richness; it balances perfectly with the other cheeses.
- Egg: An egg helps bind the filling together; don’t skip this ingredient unless you’re vegan.
- Fresh Spinach or Kale: Add greens for a nutritious boost; they also enhance color and flavor.
- Your Favorite Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade is always better if you have time.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs gives your filling an authentic Italian flair; feel free to use fresh herbs if available.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously throughout the process to enhance all flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your largest baking dish and coat it lightly with cooking spray or olive oil.
Cook Your Pasta Shells: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain carefully and set aside on parchment paper to cool slightly.
Prepare Your Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped spinach (or kale), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.
Stuff Those Shells!: Using a spoon or piping bag (if you’re feeling fancy), fill each shell generously with your cheesy mixture. Don’t be shy—stuff them like you mean it!
Add Marinara Sauce And Cheese On Top : Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Arrange filled shells on top in neat rows and cover generously with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Bake Until Golden And Bubbling : Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve hot straight from the oven! Enjoy those cheesy delights while they’re warm.
Remember to let everyone know how much love went into making this dish because nothing says “I care” like gooey cheese-filled pasta!
You Must Know
- Stuffed shells are a comforting dish that can be tailored to fit any palate
- Their cheese-filled goodness makes them the perfect family-friendly meal, and they freeze beautifully for later enjoyment
- Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cheese on top for that golden finish!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente, then prepare your filling while they cook. Layer your sauce in the baking dish before stuffing to save time and ensure even flavor distribution.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses based on what’s in your fridge or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for an extra flavor punch. You could even use ground turkey or chicken for a heartier filling!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly stuffed shells, make sure not to overcook the pasta
- A generous amount of sauce keeps them moist during baking
- Experiment with different herbs for unique flavor profiles that will wow your dinner guests!
There was that one unforgettable dinner party where I served these stuffed shells. Everyone went back for seconds—and thirds! The laughter and compliments made it clear that this dish is a crowd-pleaser every time.
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free pasta shells?
Absolutely! Gluten-free shells work well and taste just as delicious when prepared properly.
What type of cheese is best for stuffed shells?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan combine beautifully for a creamy and flavorful filling.
Can I prepare stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare them a day in advance and store covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
Delectable Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in this comforting dish of stuffed shells filled with creamy ricotta and topped with marinara sauce, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Fill each shell generously with the cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the baking dish. Arrange filled shells in rows and top with remaining sauce and mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy delight!
Notes
- Feel free to substitute different vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor.
- For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheese options.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (180g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg