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Stuffed Shells Recipe

Stuffed Shells Recipe

This Stuffed Shells Recipe is the ultimate Italian-American comfort food. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with creamy ricotta, spinach, and mozzarella, then baked in marinara sauce until bubbling and golden. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Casserole, Easy Dinner ideas, pasta
Cuisine: Italian, Italian-American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pasta & Sauce:
  • 16 jumbo pasta shells about half a box
  • 3 cups marinara sauce homemade or store-bought
  • 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking
  • For the Filling:
  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese part-skim recommended
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese plus ½ cup for topping
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup chopped spinach fresh or thawed frozen, well-drained
  • 1 large egg to bind filling
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot for boiling pasta
  • 1 Mixing Bowl to prepare the cheese filling
  • 1 Baking Dish (9x13) for layering shells and sauce
  • 1 Colander to drain pasta
  • Aluminum Foil for covering during baking

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells until just al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain, toss with olive oil, and set aside.
  2. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended and creamy.
  3. Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each pasta shell with 2–3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture.
  4. Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce.
  5. Top & Bake: Pour remaining marinara sauce evenly over the shells, sprinkle with the extra mozzarella, and cover the dish with foil. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Rest & Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Assemble shells up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
  • Freezer-friendly: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen with 15 extra minutes.
  • Sauce variations: Try Alfredo or pesto for a twist on the classic marinara.
  • Protein boost: Add cooked sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken to the filling for a heartier dish.
Stuffed Shells Recipe
Stuffed Shells Recipe