Catch the aroma of bubbling marinara sauce wafting through your kitchen as you prepare these heavenly stuffed shells. Imagine sinking your teeth into al dente pasta filled with creamy ricotta and savory herbs, all swimming in a sea of rich tomato goodness. Not only is this dish a feast for the taste buds, but it also warms the heart like a cozy blanket on a winter evening.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- <strong>Can I freeze stuffed shells before baking?</strong>
- <strong>What cheese works best for the filling?</strong>
- <strong>How long do I cook stuffed shells?</strong>
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made stuffed shells for my family; it was during one of those chaotic weeknights where takeout seemed like the easiest option. Instead, I decided to whip up this comforting classic that quickly turned into a cherished tradition at our dinner table. Trust me; every bite is worth the effort!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These stuffed shells are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect weeknight meal.
- The flavor combination of creamy cheese and zesty sauce is simply irresistible.
- Their beautiful presentation will impress your guests at any gathering.
- Versatile enough to customize with various fillings or sauces based on your preferences!
Sometimes I find my kids fighting over who gets the last shell; it’s both amusing and heartwarming!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Pasta Shells: Choose sturdy shells that hold up well when cooked and can be filled generously.
- Ricotta Cheese: Look for fresh ricotta; its creamy texture makes it ideal for stuffing.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use whole-milk mozzarella for a gooey melt that pulls apart beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves for seasoning; they impart freshness to the filling.
- Marinara Sauce: A good quality jarred or homemade marinara will make all the difference in flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your filling and sauce.
- Olive Oil: Drizzle some olive oil over the assembled dish for added richness before baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your trusty baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray. This will ensure your delicious creation slides right out when it’s time to serve.
Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil water in a large pot and add salt generously. Cook the large pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully under cold water to stop further cooking.
Create the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything melds together harmoniously like an Italian symphony.
Fill the Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag (if you’re feeling fancy), fill each cooked shell generously with your creamy cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—stuff them full!
Add Marinara Sauce: Spread half of your marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. Place each filled shell upright in the dish like little soldiers ready for battle against hunger.
Topping Time: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle with leftover mozzarella cheese. Drizzle olive oil on top for that extra touch of love before popping it into the oven.
Bake Until Golden: Cover with foil and bake for about 25 minutes until heated through. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—your kitchen will smell divine!
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve these cheesy stuffed shells hot from the oven alongside a simple salad or garlic bread if you’re feeling indulgent (and who isn’t?). Enjoy every cheesy bite while basking in compliments from friends and family alike!
You Must Know
- Stuffed shells are a delightful way to enjoy pasta.
- They’re versatile, flavorful, and can be made ahead.
- The creamy filling and savory sauce create an irresistible combination that will impress everyone at the dinner table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the shells until al dente, then prepare your filling while they cool. Next, layer the sauce in your baking dish before stuffing the shells for even flavor distribution.
Add Your Touch
Swap out ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter option or add spinach for extra nutrients. Experiment with different herbs and spices to make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
Store stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use a non-stick spray or oil on your baking dish to prevent sticking.
- For a flavor boost, sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving.
- Don’t overstuff the shells; they need room for expansion as they bake!
Creating stuffed shells became a cherished family tradition, especially when my kids eagerly devoured them while sharing stories of their day. It turned meal times into joyful moments of connection.
FAQ
Can I freeze stuffed shells before baking?
Yes, freeze them after assembling and before baking for up to three months.
What cheese works best for the filling?
Ricotta cheese is classic, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or cream cheese.
How long do I cook stuffed shells?
Bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Easy Stuffed Shells Recipe for a Cozy Dinner
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 (12 stuffed shells) 1x
Description
Stuffed shells are a comforting, cheesy delight that brings warmth to any dinner table. This easy recipe is perfect for family gatherings and weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool under cold water.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Fill each shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in the baking dish. Arrange the filled shells upright in the dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and top with leftover mozzarella and olive oil.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- For added nutrition, consider mixing in spinach or other vegetables into your filling.
- You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
