Stuffed Shells Recipe: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s a plate of pasta covered in a hearty sauce, baked to perfection with layers of melted cheese and a rich filling that warms you from the inside out. This recipe for Stuffed Shells does just that—combining the satisfying flavors of a creamy four-cheese blend, garlic, and Italian herbs wrapped in tender pasta shells. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a celebratory meal shared with loved ones. The beauty of stuffed shells lies in the simplicity of the ingredients, but when combined, they create a symphony of flavors that is anything but ordinary. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is sure to impress.

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Stuffed shells are an incredibly versatile dish. While the traditional filling consists of a mixture of cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, you can easily customize the filling to your liking. For those looking to add a little extra nutrition, a handful of spinach can be folded into the cheese mixture, adding a pop of color and a subtle earthiness that balances the richness of the cheese. What’s more, the entire recipe can be prepped in advance, making it ideal for busy nights when you want to serve something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

With its creamy cheese filling, savory marinara sauce, and aromatic herbs, this dish has all the makings of a meal that will quickly become a family favorite. The stuffed shells are generously coated in marinara sauce, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden brown. Once the dish comes out of the oven, you’ll be greeted with a delightful aroma that will have your mouth watering. Serve these stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that will please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients for Stuffed Shells

To make this dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients, but the result is pure comfort in every bite. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 18-20 jumbo pasta shells (boil extra in case some break)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (for that savory aroma)
• 4 cups spinach (optional, but recommended for added flavor and nutrition)
• 15 oz. ricotta cheese (the base of the filling)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (adds a nutty, salty flavor)
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (use half for mixing into the filling and half for topping)
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (adds extra creaminess)
• 1 egg (binds the filling together)
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (for coating the shells and creating that rich sauce)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (adds a pop of color and freshness)

Seasonings:

• ½ teaspoon salt (for seasoning the filling and sauce)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for a mild kick)
• ½ teaspoon dried basil (adds an herbal, slightly sweet flavor)
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley (for a touch of herby goodness)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (adds an earthy, savory note)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat the Oven and Boil the Pasta Shells

To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the optimal temperature for baking the stuffed shells to perfection, ensuring that the cheese filling melts beautifully and the pasta shells become tender without overcooking.

While the oven heats up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions, but be sure to subtract about one minute from the suggested time to avoid overcooking. The pasta should be slightly firmer than al dente since it will continue to soften in the oven during baking. Once the shells are cooked, drain them and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help them maintain their shape and prevent them from becoming mushy when baked. Set the shells aside to cool.

2. Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

While the shells are cooling, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute, or until fragrant. The garlic will start to release its aromatic oils, which will infuse the dish with a savory depth of flavor.

If you’re adding spinach (which I highly recommend for its added flavor and nutritional benefits), chop it into small strips or roughly tear it into pieces. Add the spinach to the skillet and toss it with the garlic. Cook the spinach for about 3 minutes, or until it has fully wilted. The spinach will release some moisture, so make sure to cook it down until most of the liquid evaporates. Set the spinach and garlic mixture aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Cheese Filling

Now it’s time to prepare the delicious cheese filling that will make this dish so irresistible. In a large mixing bowl, combine 15 oz. ricotta cheese, ½ cup grated Parmesan, and half of the shredded mozzarella (about 1 ½ cups). The ricotta provides a creamy, slightly grainy texture, while the mozzarella gives the filling a melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the bowl, which will make the filling even creamier and more luscious. Crack an egg into the mixture to help bind everything together. Then, season the mixture with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried parsley, and ½ teaspoon dried oregano. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Once the spinach and garlic mixture has cooled, gently fold it into the cheese mixture.

4. Assemble the Stuffed Shells

Now comes the fun part: assembling the stuffed shells. Start by spreading half of the marinara sauce (12 ounces) on the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish or a 12-inch round oven-safe skillet. This layer of sauce will prevent the shells from sticking to the dish while baking and infuse the pasta with flavor as it bakes.

Next, carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and spinach mixture. Use a spoon to fill each shell generously, making sure the filling is evenly distributed. Once all the shells are stuffed, arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish.

Pour the remaining 12 ounces of marinara sauce over the top of the shells, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese (about 1 ½ cups) and a little extra grated Parmesan on top of the shells. This will create a cheesy, golden crust when baked.

5. Bake the Stuffed Shells

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake the stuffed shells for 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. If you prefer a crispier, more browned top, you can broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the stuffed shells are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the filling set and makes the shells easier to serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. The parsley not only looks beautiful but adds a light, herbal note to balance the richness of the dish.

Serve your stuffed shells hot, straight from the oven, with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese, pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the savory flavors and adding a touch of sophistication to your meal.

Flavor and Texture Breakdown

The best part about stuffed shells is the combination of flavors and textures. As you bite into the dish, the pasta shells provide a satisfying chew, holding the creamy filling inside. The cheese filling is a dream: rich and velvety, with the ricotta adding a slight grainy texture, the cream cheese contributing a smoothness, and the mozzarella offering a gooey melt. The Parmesan gives a savory depth, while the spinach adds a burst of freshness and slight bitterness to cut through the richness of the cheese.

The marinara sauce provides the perfect balance to the cheesy filling, with its bright acidity and tanginess complementing the richness of the dish. The sauce also soaks into the pasta shells during baking, infusing them with flavor and creating a luscious, comforting experience in every bite.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be made ahead. If you’re preparing this dish in advance, simply follow the instructions up until the point of baking, then cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then bake according to the instructions, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if needed to account for the cold temperature of the dish.

For those who want to freeze the stuffed shells for later, you can assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook the frozen stuffed shells directly in the oven (no need to thaw), but be sure to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Substitutions and Variations

• Spinach: Fresh spinach can be replaced with frozen spinach if you prefer, but make sure to thaw and drain it before using it in the filling. For a different twist, you could add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even kale to the filling for added flavor.
• Cheese: While the traditional ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan work wonderfully in this recipe, feel free to get creative with your cheese selection. Try using provolone for a sharper flavor or fontina for extra creaminess.
• Sauce: If you’re not a fan of marinara, you can switch it up with alfredo sauce or a pesto sauce for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Whether you’re preparing a special family dinner or hosting friends for a cozy evening, stuffed shells are the perfect dish to serve. This hearty and flavorful meal will not only fill your stomach but also warm your heart, making it an instant classic in your home. With its creamy filling, savory sauce, and gooey cheese, stuffed shells offer the ideal balance of flavors and textures that will satisfy any craving for comfort food. Enjoy every bite and share it with the ones you love—you’ll be glad you did!