Stuffed Shells Recipe: There’s nothing like a plate of warm, cheesy, stuffed shells to make you feel at home! Stuffed shells are one of those classic comfort foods that combine tender pasta with a rich, cheesy filling, all covered in a savory tomato sauce. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making it ahead for busy nights, this dish is always a winner. It’s easy to customize too—you can go full vegetarian, add meat, or even sneak in some veggies.
Ready to dive in? Let’s walk through the process of making the best stuffed shells, step by step.
Ingredients Required for Stuffed Shells
Here’s everything you’ll need for this recipe:
- Jumbo pasta shells – 12 to 16 shells
- Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 ½ cups (divided)
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
- Egg – 1 large
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh basil – 2 tbsp, chopped
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Marinara sauce – 2 cups (store-bought or homemade)
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Ingredient Substitutes and Add-ons
- Use cottage cheese if you don’t have ricotta.
- Add spinach or other greens for a nutrient boost.
- Swap ground beef or Italian sausage into the filling for a meatier version.
Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowl for filling
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Ladle or spoon for stuffing shells
- Aluminum foil
How to Cook Stuffed Shells – A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them 2 minutes less than the package instructions. This ensures the shells are slightly undercooked, so they won’t become mushy when baked. Drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Making the Ricotta Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are combined. This will create the creamy, flavorful filling that makes these shells irresistible.
Step 3: Preparing the Tomato Sauce
If you’re using store-bought marinara, you can enhance it by adding a bit of garlic or crushed red pepper. Otherwise, a simple homemade sauce made from canned tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil works beautifully.
Step 4: Stuffing the Shells
Using a spoon, carefully fill each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture. Don’t overfill—just enough to keep the shells from bursting open while baking.
Step 5: Arranging the Shells in the Baking Dish
Pour a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Arrange the filled shells on top in a single layer. Once all the shells are arranged, spoon more sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
Baking the Stuffed Shells
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
How to Know When It’s Perfectly Cooked
The stuffed shells are done when the cheese inside is melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
How to Make It Ahead of Time
This dish is perfect for prepping ahead. Assemble the shells as instructed, cover tightly with foil, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Freezing Tips for Make-Ahead Meals
Stuffed shells freeze well. Arrange them in a baking dish, cover with sauce, and freeze unbaked. To cook from frozen, bake at 375°F for 45-50 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed shells pair wonderfully with:
- Garlic bread
- A fresh garden salad
- Steamed vegetables
How to Store Leftovers
Transfer leftover shells to an airtight container and store in the fridge for 3-4 days.
How to Reheat without Drying Out
To reheat, cover the shells with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
Variations of Stuffed Shells
Vegetarian Stuffed Shells
Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor.
Meat Lover’s Version
Mix in cooked ground beef or sausage with the cheese filling for a heartier dish.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free pasta shells and double-check that your sauce is gluten-free as well.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells Every Time
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will cook more in the oven.
- Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to let the flavors meld.
Can You Use Store-Bought Sauce?
Absolutely! While homemade sauce is delicious, store-bought marinara can save time. Look for high-quality brands for the best results.
Health Benefits of Homemade Stuffed Shells
This dish provides a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamins from the cheese and eggs. Adding vegetables like spinach can increase its nutritional value further.
Stuffed Shells vs. Manicotti – What’s the Difference?
The main difference lies in the pasta shape: manicotti are large tubes, while stuffed shells have a conch shape, making them easier to fill.
FAQs about Stuffed Shells Recipe
1. What are stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells are large pasta shells filled with a mixture of cheeses, vegetables, meats, or seafood. They are usually topped with marinara or Alfredo sauce and baked until bubbly and golden.
2. What type of cheese is best for stuffed shells?
Ricotta is the most common choice, often mixed with mozzarella and Parmesan for extra creaminess and flavor. Some recipes also include cottage cheese or mascarpone as alternatives.
3. Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, stuffed shells can be prepared in advance. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake directly from the fridge or freezer, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
4. How long do you bake stuffed shells?
Typically, stuffed shells are baked at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the sauce bubbles and the cheese melts. If baking from frozen, extend the time by 10-15 minutes.
5. Can stuffed shells be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the meat and use spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version. Add herbs like basil or parsley to enhance the flavor.
6. What sauce pairs best with stuffed shells?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but Alfredo or a creamy tomato sauce works wonderfully too. For added depth, mix pesto into the sauce or layer it between shells.
7. How do I keep the pasta shells from sticking together?
Boil the shells until slightly undercooked (al dente) and toss them in a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Spreading them out on a baking sheet can also help.
8. What side dishes complement stuffed shells?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or steamed vegetables are great side dishes. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
10. Can I customize the stuffing?
Yes! Experiment with different fillings like ground beef, sausage, chicken, or seafood. Adding herbs, spices, and different cheeses can make your stuffed shells unique.
Conclusion
Stuffed shells are the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a hearty family meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. The step-by-step instructions ensure even beginners can create a mouth-watering dish with ease. So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy a plate of cheesy, saucy goodness!
References
To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided in the Stuffed Shells Recipe, we recommend consulting these reputable sources for further reading and recipe variations. These references will help you deepen your understanding of preparation techniques, ingredient substitutions, and creative serving ideas:
- AllRecipes – Explore expert tips and user-submitted stuffed shells recipes for both classic and modern takes.
- Food Network – Find step-by-step guidance and video tutorials from renowned chefs to perfect your stuffed shells.
- Bon Appétit – Discover innovative variations and ingredient ideas to elevate your stuffed shells.
- Taste of Home – Check out family-friendly versions of stuffed shells, ideal for weeknight meals or special occasions.
These sources will validate the information shared and offer alternative perspectives to help you customize your stuffed shells to your liking.
