Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days.
What makes this dish special is its versatility and make-ahead convenience. The shells can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. They’re also easily customizable – you can add herbs, swap in different cheeses, or incorporate other vegetables to suit your taste.
Italian Stuffed Shells are a classic comfort dish that elevates everyday pasta into an impressive main course. This recipe features jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of three cheeses – ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan – creating a creamy, indulgent filling that’s perfectly balanced with tangy marinara sauce. The optional addition of fresh spinach and aromatic garlic adds nutrition and depth of flavor while staying true to traditional Italian-American cuisine.
These stuffed shells are more than just a meal; they’re a crowd-pleasing dish that brings people together. The sight of bubbling cheese and sauce coming out of the oven creates an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying your hand at Italian cuisine for the first time, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with straightforward preparation steps.
Yield: 6-8 servings Prep: 25 min Cook: 35 min
Ingredients: For the Shells:
- 1 package (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
- 24 oz marinara sauce
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Instructions:
- Cook shells according to package. Drain and cool.
- Mix all filling ingredients until combined.
- Spread 1 cup marinara in 9×13 baking dish.
- Fill shells with cheese mixture. Place in dish.
- Top with remaining sauce and cheeses.
- Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.