Irresistible Stuffed Shells Recipe You Must Try Today

There’s something magical about the aroma of stuffed shells wafting through your kitchen. Picture this: tender pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and a sprinkle of gooey mozzarella, all slathered in rich marinara sauce. Your taste buds are already tingling, aren’t they? This stuffed shells recipe is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that wraps you in warmth and comfort.

I still remember the first time I made these delightful stuffed shells for my family. It was during a chilly winter evening, and as we gathered around the table, their faces lit up with joy at the first bite. Moments like those remind me why I love cooking so much. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish never fails to impress!

I once made this stuffed shells recipe for a potluck, and let’s just say I left with an empty dish and a few new friends.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Large Pasta Shells: Opt for sturdy shells that can hold generous amounts of filling without tearing.

• Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh ricotta for creaminess; it makes all the difference in texture and flavor.

• Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant leaves for a pop of color; you can also use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The more cheese, the merrier! It adds that ooey-gooey goodness everyone loves.

• Marinara Sauce: A good-quality jarred sauce works wonders here; don’t skimp on flavor!

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds depth; sprinkle generously on top before baking.

• Garlic Powder: This gives an extra kick; feel free to adjust according to your taste.

• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta Shells: Start by boiling water in a large pot and adding salt. Cook large pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.

Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped fresh spinach, half of the mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended—your filling should resemble creamy green clouds of deliciousness.

Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag (or even your hands if you’re feeling adventurous), fill each pasta shell generously with the cheesy mixture. Don’t be shy—stuff them like you mean it!

Add Marinara Sauce & Cheese Topping: Spread some marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Place each stuffed shell seam side up into the dish and cover them with remaining sauce. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top—this creates that magical cheesy crust.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil in the last 10 minutes for that golden-brown finish.

Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delicious stuffed shells recipe! It’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household as it has in mine!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, cook the pasta al dente first, then prepare the filling while it cools. Assemble and bake together to meld flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter version or add spinach for extra nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Cooking stuffed shells reminds me of a family gathering when my cousin devoured half the tray before dinner, claiming he was merely “taste-testing.”

FAQ

Can I make this stuffed shells recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble everything and refrigerate before baking for up to 24 hours.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or cream cheese are excellent alternatives that work well in this recipe.

How do I freeze leftover stuffed shells?

Freeze individual portions in airtight containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Print

Stuffed Shells

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Indulge in the comforting delight of stuffed shells, a perfect fusion of tender pasta filled with creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and gooey mozzarella, all enveloped in rich marinara sauce. This easy-to-make dish promises to warm your heart and impress your family. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, stuffed shells are always a crowd-pleaser!

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 large pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the pasta shells until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and cool.
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, half of the mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Fill each shell generously with the mixture.
4. Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange stuffed shells seam side up and cover with remaining sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil for the last 10 minutes to brown.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (approximately 270g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg