Classic Stuffed Shells

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:

  1. 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:

  1. Heat Olive Oil: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. 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:

  1. 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:

  1. Fill the Shells: Spoon the ricotta mixture into each pasta shell, ensuring they are generously stuffed.

Assemble the Dish:

  1. 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.
  2. 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:

  1. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

  1. 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

  1. 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.
  2. Can I make this dish in advance?
    Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
  3. How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
    Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Can I make these shells without egg?
    Yes, omit the egg or use a flax egg for a vegan option.
  7. 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.
  8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15 minutes.
  9. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish for a bigger crowd.
  10. 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!

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