Deliciously Cheesy Stuffed Shells Recipe

A Cozy, Cheesy Favorite

There’s nothing better than a warm, cheesy pasta dish on a chilly evening—or really, any time of the year! Stuffed shells are the perfect comfort food, packed with creamy ricotta cheese, covered in rich tomato sauce, and baked until bubbly and golden.

It’s one of those meals that makes your home smell amazing and brings everyone to the table with big smiles.

This recipe is great because it’s easy to make, but it looks and tastes like something from a fancy Italian restaurant.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, a gathering with friends, or just meal-prepping for the week, these stuffed shells are always a hit. Plus, they’re super customizable—you can add spinach, sausage, or different cheeses to make them your own.

I first learned how to make these stuffed shells with my grandmother, who always said, “Good food brings people together.” And she was right!

Now, every time I bake a dish of these shells, I think of those cozy kitchen memories. If you’re ready to make a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, let’s get started!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is simple and fun.
• Cheesy and comforting – The creamy ricotta filling and melted mozzarella make every bite irresistible.
• Perfect for meal prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Great for gatherings – Impress your family and friends with a homemade Italian favorite.
• Customizable – Add veggies, meat, or different cheeses to match your taste.

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Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells:

• 20-25 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For a Simple Side Salad (Optional):

• 4 cups mixed greens (like romaine or spinach)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
• ¼ cup sliced cucumbers
• ¼ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garlic Bread (Optional):

• 1 baguette or a loaf of Italian bread
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before we start cooking, make sure you have these tools ready:

• Large pot – For boiling the pasta shells.
• Strainer – To drain the pasta.
• Mixing bowls – For preparing the cheese filling.
• Baking dish (9×13-inch) – To bake the stuffed shells.
• Spoon or piping bag – To fill the pasta shells easily.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To get the right ingredient amounts.
• Aluminum foil – To cover the dish while baking.
• Oven mitts – To safely handle the hot baking dish.

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Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions (they will continue to cook in the oven).
3. Drain the shells and rinse them with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir everything together until smooth and well-mixed.

Step 3: Fill the Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of your baking dish.
3. Use a spoon (or a piping bag for less mess) to fill each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture.
4. Place the filled shells in the baking dish, open side up.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

1. Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
2. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake!

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
3. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

More Recipes >>>>>>>> Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

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Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t overcook the pasta! Slightly undercooked shells hold their shape better and won’t get mushy in the oven.
• Use a piping bag (or a plastic bag with the tip cut off) to easily fill the shells without making a mess.
• Try different cheeses! Add some shredded provolone or a little feta for extra flavor.
• Want to add protein? Mix cooked crumbled sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken into the cheese filling.
• Make it ahead! You can prepare everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready.
• Freeze for later! Assemble the shells, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about stuffed shells is how versatile they are! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

Cheese Substitutions

• No ricotta? Try cottage cheese or mashed tofu for a similar creamy texture.
• Want more flavor? Add goat cheese or feta to the filling.
• Make it extra cheesy! Mix in some shredded provolone or asiago.

Protein Additions

• Meat lovers: Add cooked crumbled sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken to the filling.
• Seafood twist: Try adding chopped shrimp or crab meat.

Vegetarian and Healthier Options

• Add veggies: Stir in chopped spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta shells or even hollowed-out zucchini boats instead of pasta.

Sauce Variations

• Is classic tomato sauce not your thing? Try Alfredo sauce, pesto, or a spicy arrabbiata sauce instead!
• Make it creamy: Mix a little cream cheese or heavy cream into the sauce for a richer taste.

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Serving Suggestions

Stuffed shells are a complete meal on their own, but here are some great side dishes to serve with them:

• Garlic Bread – Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Fresh Salad – A simple green salad with balsamic dressing balances out the rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
• Soup Starter – A bowl of tomato basil soup or minestrone pairs well with this dish.

For a full Italian-inspired meal, finish with tiramisu or cannoli for dessert!

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Let the stuffed shells cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven (best method): Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes (or 40 minutes if frozen).
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes per serving. Add a little extra sauce to keep them from drying out.
• Stovetop: Place shells in a pan with a little sauce, cover, and heat on low until warmed through.

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FAQ

1. Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking straight from the fridge, add 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. Can I freeze stuffed shells before baking?

Absolutely! Assemble the shells in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight or bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes.

3. How do I keep stuffed shells from falling apart?

• Don’t overcook the pasta—cook it slightly underdone so it stays firm.
• Let them cool before stuffing to keep them from breaking.
• Arrange them closely together in the baking dish so they hold their shape.

4. What’s the best way to make this dish for a crowd?

Double the recipe and bake in a large casserole dish or two smaller ones. Serve buffet-style with a salad and garlic bread.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella (available in most grocery stores) and swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Now you’re all set to make the best stuffed shells ever! Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!