Cheesy Stuffed Shells Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

 There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of cheesy stuffed shells. This dish combines creamy, gooey cheese with tender pasta and rich marinara sauce, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a casual potluck, these cheesy stuffed shells are always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make!

Grab your apron, and let's create this cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To make this hearty dish, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients.

For the Filling:

• 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve ½ cup for topping)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Additional Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, but stop 1-2 minutes shy of al dente. Since the shells will cook further in the oven, you want them to hold their shape while baking. Drain the shells, rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process, and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

While the pasta cools, mix the filling. Combine the ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir until all the ingredients are well blended. The filling should be creamy but thick. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

Using a spoon or piping bag, stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling, but don’t overfill to avoid tearing the shells. Place each stuffed shell in the prepared baking dish, open side up, and arrange them snugly to fit.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. If you enjoy extra gooeyness, sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to keep the shells moist while baking) and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

When your cheesy stuffed shells come out of the oven, they’ll smell absolutely irresistible! To enhance the flavors, garnish them with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair the dish with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Leftovers (if any!) reheat beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option.

Cooking Tips and Variations

1. Protein Boost
   Add cooked crumbled Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken to the marinara sauce to create a heartier meal.

2. Veggie Packed
   For a vegetarian twist, mix sautéed spinach or finely chopped cooked zucchini into the cheese filling for added texture and flavor.

3. Freezer-Friendly
   Assemble the stuffed shells in a disposable aluminum baking pan, but don’t bake them. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

4. Perfect Filling Tip
   Use a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off to pipe the cheese filling into the shells if you’re feeling fancy. This trick makes the process faster and mess-free!

Customize It Your Way

Cheesy stuffed shells are endlessly versatile. Experiment with different cheeses, spices, and sauces to make the recipe uniquely yours. Swap marinara for Alfredo sauce, or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese filling for a spicy kick.

There you have it! This cheesy stuffed shells recipe is simple, scrumptious, and guarantee smiles around the dinner table. Now it’s your turn to give it a try. Trust us, once you serve this dish, it’ll quickly become a household favorite!