Name: Stuffed Shells: 6 Cheesy Variations for Comforting Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 30 ounces whipped cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese); 6 ounces grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 to 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced; ¾ cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper; 28 ounces marinara sauce; 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated

Jump to Recipe

Stuffed Shells are a comforting and delicious dish that has become a staple in many homes. This easy stuffed shells recipe features jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture and topped with rich marinara sauce and bubbling mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and you can customize the filling to suit your taste. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting friends, these cheesy delights are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Shells

There are countless reasons to adore this recipe for Stuffed Shells. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights. Second, the creamy filling can be customized, making it suitable for vegetarian stuffed shells or stuffed shells with meat sauce. Third, it’s a family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will enjoy. Fourth, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables, such as spinach. Fifth, it can be frozen and reheated, ideal for meal prep. Lastly, the combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible!

Ingredients for Stuffed Shells

Gather these items:

12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
1 tablespoon kosher salt
30 ounces whipped cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese)
6 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 to 2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
¾ cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper
28 ounces marinara sauce
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated

How to Make Stuffed Shells Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray and spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until 3 minutes shy of al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water. Set the shells aside.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whipped cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Step 4: Fill each shell with the cheese mixture, and place the stuffed shells into the baking dish, nestling them into the marinara sauce.
Step 5: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and bubble.
Step 7: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells

Keep these in mind: Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor, and don’t skimp on the cheese for that gooey texture everyone loves. Also, consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for healthy stuffed shells variations. Make sure to follow the baking method for best results.

Best Ways to Serve Stuffed Shells

When it comes to serving stuffed shells, pair them with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also drizzle some extra marinara sauce over the top for added flavor. These cheesy stuffed shells make for a beautiful presentation, making them perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings.

How to Store and Reheat Stuffed Shells

To store stuffed shells, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For meal prep lovers, they can also be frozen before baking for up to three months. To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Shells

What’s the secret to perfect Stuffed Shells?

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients and ensuring the pasta is cooked just shy of al dente. This prevents the shells from becoming mushy as they bake. For a creamy texture, consider using ricotta or cottage cheese mixed with herbs and spices.

Can I make Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells a day ahead. Simply assemble them in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Stuffed Shells?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the shells initially, as they will continue to cook while baking. Also, make sure to use enough sauce to keep the shells moist and flavorful.

Variations of Stuffed Shells You Can Try

There are endless possibilities for stuffed shells. You can create gluten-free stuffed shells using gluten-free pasta. For a twist, try stuffed shells with spinach or add meat for a heartier meal. Experimenting with different cheeses and fillings can lead to delightful discoveries!