Looking for a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dinner? This stuffed shells recipe is the perfect choice. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, baked stuffed shells are easy to make, freezer-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from selecting the best ingredients to tips for perfect shells every time. Let’s dive into the ultimate stuffed shells recipe that’s guaranteed to become a go-to in your kitchen.
What Are Stuffed Shells?
Stuffed shells are large pasta shells (known as “conchiglioni”) that are boiled until al dente and then filled with a delicious, creamy ricotta cheese mixture. They are typically baked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan for the perfect Italian-inspired comfort dish.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Easy to Make Ahead: Perfect for meal prepping or busy weeknights.
- Freezer-Friendly: Bake one batch and freeze another for later.
- Customizable: Add spinach, ground beef, sausage, or veggies to make it your own.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters can’t resist cheesy pasta baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients for Stuffed Shells Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
For the Shells:
- 20–25 jumbo pasta shells
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional for sautéing garlic or onion)
Optional Add-ins
Want to make your stuffed shells recipe a little more robust or veggie-packed? Try these popular additions:
- 1 cup cooked spinach (squeezed dry and chopped)
- ½ cup cooked ground beef or Italian sausage
- Sautéed mushrooms or zucchini
- Red pepper flakes for heat
How to Make Stuffed Shells: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente—usually 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions. Be careful not to overcook; the shells will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, 1 ½ cups mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. If adding spinach or cooked meat, fold them in at this stage.
Step 3: Fill the Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each cooked shell with 1–2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture and arrange them in the baking dish, open side up.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Once all shells are stuffed and arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle with additional mozzarella and a bit more Parmesan. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or extra parsley if desired. Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells Every Time
- Undercook the Pasta Slightly: You don’t want the shells to fall apart when filling them.
- Use a Piping Bag or Spoon: A spoon works fine, but a piping bag makes filling faster and neater.
- Don’t Overfill the Dish: Leave a little room between shells so they bake evenly and don’t tear.
- Cover During Initial Bake: This keeps the shells from drying out.
- Double the Recipe: Great for freezing—just thaw and bake for an easy meal later.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions
To Make Ahead: Assemble the dish fully, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
To Freeze Unbaked:
- Prepare the stuffed shells and place them in the baking dish with sauce.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Bake from frozen at 375°F for 50–60 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
To Freeze Baked Shells: Let them cool completely, then transfer individual portions to airtight containers or wrap tightly in foil and freeze.
What to Serve with Stuffed Shells
This stuffed shells recipe pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
- Caesar Salad or Mixed Greens with Balsamic
- Roasted Vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers
- Antipasto Platter with olives, salami, and artichokes for a festive meal
Variations on Stuffed Shells Recipe
Want to switch things up? Try these creative spins:
- Meat Lover’s Shells: Add ground beef or sausage to the filling.
- Spinach and Ricotta Shells: A vegetarian favorite packed with greens.
- Pesto Ricotta Shells: Add a spoonful of basil pesto to the cheese mixture for a flavor boost.
- Mexican-Inspired Shells: Use taco-seasoned beef, black beans, and enchilada sauce instead of marinara.
- White Sauce Shells: Swap marinara for Alfredo or béchamel for a creamy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
How many shells per person should I plan for?
Plan on 4–5 shells per person if served as a main course with sides.
Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, but strain it first for a thicker consistency. Ricotta provides a creamier, more traditional texture.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
Final Thoughts: Why This Stuffed Shells Recipe Belongs in Your Meal Rotation
This stuffed shells recipe is the definition of comfort food—rich, cheesy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday meal prep, or cozy get-togethers with family and friends.
With endless variations and simple steps, this dish proves that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated. Try it once, and you’ll be adding this stuffed shells recipe to your favorites list in no time.