delicious stuffed shells recepie
If you are looking for a hearty and comforting meal that brings everyone to the table, this delicious stuffed shells recipe is the perfect choice. Filled with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and a hint of herbs, each shell is packed with flavor and baked in a rich tomato sauce that ties it all together. This dish is ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or when you simply want something satisfying and homey without spending hours in the kitchen.
Stuffed shells offer the kind of warmth and richness that turns an ordinary meal into something memorable. The best part is how customizable they are. Whether you prefer to keep them vegetarian or add cooked ground meat for extra depth, the result is always delicious. From the golden bubbly top to the cheesy filling inside, every bite delivers the perfect balance of texture and taste.
Why You Need This Recipe
This recipe is a must-have for anyone who enjoys comforting, home-cooked meals that feel special but are easy to prepare. It takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something that tastes like it came from a cozy Italian kitchen. Whether you are feeding a hungry family or planning a make-ahead meal, stuffed shells are both practical and impressive.
What makes this dish stand out is the creamy, cheesy filling and the way it soaks up the flavor of the marinara sauce during baking. It is also perfect for leftovers, reheats beautifully, and can be frozen for later. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this stuffed shells recipe deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotatio
Ingredients
You only need a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients to make these stuffed shells, and the results are worth every bite. Here’s everything you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Jumbo pasta shells | 20–22 shells | 200 |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 ½ cups | 330 |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups | 640 |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | 220 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons | 5 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 8 |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | 1 |
| Marinara sauce | 3 cups | 240 |
| Olive oil (for greasing) | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
Total Estimated Calories (per serving of 4 shells): Around 460–480 calories.
How to Prepare
Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted water. Cook them until just al dente, then drain and rinse them with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside on a tray so they do not stick together.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy. This is your rich and flavorful filling.
Next, spread a layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking dish. Carefully stuff each shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Arrange the stuffed shells over the sauce in a single layer.
Once all the shells are filled and in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top if you like it extra cheesy. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
Do not overcook the pasta shells. Boil them just until al dente, as they will continue to soften while baking. Overcooked shells can tear or become too mushy to hold the filling properly.
For a smoother filling, make sure to drain any excess liquid from the ricotta before mixing. This helps keep the filling firm and creamy without making the dish watery.
Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off to fill the shells easily. It makes the process quicker and keeps things tidy.
Add some chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the cheese mixture if you want extra flavor and nutrients. You can also mix in cooked ground beef or sausage for a meaty version.
Let the baked shells rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and the flavors to settle, making each bite even better.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Stuffed shells pair beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The fresh crunch balances the richness of the cheesy filling. You can also serve them with garlic bread or warm focaccia to soak up the extra sauce.
For toppings, a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese before serving brings out even more savory depth. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes on top for a subtle kick. A drizzle of olive oil or a spoonful of pesto can also elevate the flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
This delicious stuffed shells recipe is the kind of dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. With its creamy filling, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly baked pasta, it is a meal that feels both homemade and special. Whether you are making it for a family dinner or preparing ahead for busy days, it always delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
Once you try it, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. It is simple to make, easy to customize, and loved by kids and adults alike. Serve it with your favorite sides, add your own twist, and enjoy a dish that’s truly made to please.
