Classic Stuffed Shells are a comforting and satisfying Italian-American dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Jumbo pasta shells are generously stuffed with a creamy, cheesy filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, often enhanced with spinach or herbs like parsley and basil. Nestled in a rich marinara sauce and topped with more cheese, the shells are baked to bubbling perfection, creating a hearty, flavorful meal.
The inspiration behind this dish lies in its ability to bring people together over a timeless recipe that’s as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat. It’s a versatile meal that can easily accommodate personal touches—like adding ground beef, sausage, or a touch of nutmeg to the filling—making it a customizable favorite for any palate.
What makes Classic Stuffed Shells special is the balance of textures and flavors: tender pasta, creamy filling, and savory tomato sauce all meld into a warm, inviting bite. Whether served with a crisp green salad and garlic bread or simply on their own, these stuffed shells are a beloved classic that always feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for meal prepping or freezing for later, they’re as practical as they are delicious!
Perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Potlucks and gatherings
- Meal prep
- Special occasions
- Pasta lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Classic Stuffed Shells will become your go-to dinner recipe:
- Comforting and Hearty: The combination of stuffed pasta and rich marinara sauce makes for a filling and satisfying meal.
- Cheesy Delight: The filling of ricotta and mozzarella creates a creamy, cheesy center that perfectly complements the soft pasta.
- Homemade Flavor: The marinara sauce is made from scratch, adding depth and freshness to the dish.
- Customizable Filling: You can easily adjust the filling to suit your tastes, adding spinach, herbs, or even ground meat.
- Easy to Prepare in Advance: Stuffed shells can be assembled ahead of time, making them perfect for busy days.
- Feeds a Crowd: This dish is ideal for serving a large group, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or potlucks.
- Vegetarian Option: The ricotta filling is naturally vegetarian, making this a great option for meatless meals.
- Baked to Perfection: The shells are baked until golden and bubbly, creating a crispy top layer while maintaining a soft, cheesy interior.
- Versatile Sauce: The marinara sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from garlic bread to a fresh salad.
- Freezer-Friendly: Leftovers freeze well, making it easy to enjoy later for busy nights.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 18g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 15g
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Marinara Sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Ricotta Cheese: Creates a creamy and rich filling that perfectly complements the pasta.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Adds melt-in-your-mouth gooeyness to the dish.
- Homemade Marinara Sauce: Fresh garlic and herbs infuse the tomato sauce with flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp and savory touch to the ricotta filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta Shells:
- Boil the Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
- Heat Olive Oil: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Add tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes to combine flavors. Set aside.
Make the Ricotta Filling:
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Stuff the Shells:
- Fill the Shells: Spoon the ricotta mixture into each pasta shell, ensuring they are generously stuffed.
Assemble the Dish:
- Layer in a Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Bake the Stuffed Shells:
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Classic Stuffed Shells:
- With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside crispy garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
- With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a light, refreshing salad for a balanced meal.
- For a Family Dinner: This dish is perfect for feeding a large group or family.
- As a Potluck Dish: It’s an easy and crowd-pleasing dish to bring to a gathering.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli or zucchini for a healthy side.
- As a Make-Ahead Meal: Prepare it a day ahead and bake when ready to serve.
- With a Side of Soup: Serve with a bowl of Italian wedding soup for a comforting meal.
- For a Special Occasion: Great for birthdays or holiday dinners.
- For Meal Prep: Pack individual portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Additional Tips
- Don’t Overstuff the Shells: Fill the shells generously, but be careful not to overstuff, which can make them difficult to handle.
- Chill Before Baking: Assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate for an hour before baking to allow the flavors to meld.
- Use Fresh Pasta Shells: If possible, use fresh pasta shells for a more delicate texture.
- Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, make a double batch of marinara sauce for a saucier dish.
- Check for Doneness: The stuffed shells should be bubbling and golden on top when done.
Recipe Variations
- Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells: Add sautéed spinach to the ricotta filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Meat Lovers Stuffed Shells: Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the ricotta filling for a heartier meal.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta shells to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Stuffed Shells: Replace the ricotta with a vegan ricotta or cashew cream and use dairy-free cheese.
- Baked Ziti Style: Substitute the stuffed shells with ziti pasta for a variation on the classic.
- Pesto Stuffed Shells: Add a spoonful of pesto to the ricotta filling for an herby twist.
Special Equipment
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta shells.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: To assemble and bake the stuffed shells.
- Medium Saucepan: For preparing the marinara sauce.
- Spoon or Piping Bag: To fill the pasta shells with the ricotta mixture.
- Aluminum Foil: For covering the baking dish while baking.
FAQ Section
- Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, store-bought sauce works well if you’re short on time. Just add extra herbs to enhance the flavor. - Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. - How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes, freeze them before baking for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time. - Can I use a different cheese for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different flavor and texture. - Can I make these shells without egg?
Yes, omit the egg or use a flax egg for a vegan option. - How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?
Make sure to stir the shells occasionally while boiling, and rinse them with cold water after draining to prevent sticking. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15 minutes. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish for a bigger crowd. - Can I add meat to the sauce?
Yes, ground beef can be added to the marinara sauce for a meatier version.
Conclusion
Classic Stuffed Shells is a timeless Italian dish that’s comforting and packed with flavor. The large pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, then baked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese. It’s a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
To make, cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, then stuff them with a mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, garlic, herbs like basil and oregano, and a little egg to help bind it all together. Layer a baking dish with marinara sauce, place the stuffed shells on top, and cover with more sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve your Classic Stuffed Shells with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a delicious and hearty meal.
I can’t wait to see how your stuffed shells turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creation!