Italian Stuffed Shells

If you’re craving a meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table, Italian Stuffed Shells are the perfect choice. Jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy blend of cheeses and herbs, baked in rich marinara sauce, create a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. This classic Italian-inspired recipe is ideal for family dinners, cozy evenings, or special gatherings where comfort food takes center stage.

Italian Stuffed Shells have long been a favorite in many households, and for good reason. They’re hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare. If you love dishes like lasagna but want something just as comforting with a little less effort, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

What Are Italian Stuffed Shells?

Italian Stuffed Shells are made using large pasta shells that are cooked until tender, then filled with a rich mixture of cheeses, herbs, and seasoning. Once stuffed, they’re layered in marinara sauce and baked until bubbly and golden. Each shell holds the perfect amount of filling, ensuring a delicious balance of pasta, cheese, and sauce in every bite.

This dish is a timeless classic that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing, making it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love These Italian Stuffed Shells

• Rich and Comforting: Creamy cheese filling paired with savory marinara sauce

• Family-Friendly: A dish everyone loves, from kids to adults

• Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that go a long way

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or entertaining

With minimal effort, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish that feels homemade and heartfelt.

How to Make Italian Stuffed Shells

Quick Overview

This recipe comes together easily with a short prep time and simple baking steps. In about one hour total, you’ll have a delicious, oven-baked meal ready to serve.

Ingredients

• 12 jumbo pasta shells

• 2 cups ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 2 cups marinara sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling
   In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

3. Stuff the Shells
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently fill each shell with the cheese mixture.

4. Assemble the Dish
   Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top. Spoon the remaining sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.

5. Bake
   Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

6. Serve
   Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Italian Stuffed Shells

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly firm shells hold their shape better when baked.

• Smooth Filling: Blend ricotta if you prefer an extra-creamy texture.

• Flavor Boost: Add fresh garlic or spinach to the cheese mixture for variety.

• Cover While Baking: Keeps the shells moist and prevents drying out.

Italian Stuffed Shells

A comforting dish featuring large pasta shells filled with a creamy cheese mixture and topped with marinara sauce, perfect for family gatherings.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese Ensure it's fresh for the best flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Reserve some for topping.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ea egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish Optional.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions for al dente texture, usually about 9-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
• In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Assembly

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully stuff each cooked shell with a generous amount of the cheese mixture.
• Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Place the filled shells on top, then drizzle with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells.

Baking

• Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
• Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired!

Notes

Substitutions: Cottage cheese can replace ricotta. Marinara sauce can be swapped with white or pesto sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.

Keyword Cheesy Dish, Comfort Food, Family Meal, Italian Stuffed Shells, Pasta