Classic Stuffed Shells
A comforting Italian classic that's perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Total
70 min
Servings
4-6
Level
Medium
Stuffed shells are a comforting Italian-American dish that brings together tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and savory marinara sauce. It's a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the filling to include spinach, sausage, or even a touch of nutmeg for a unique twist. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned pro, stuffed shells are a satisfying and rewarding dish to make. Once you see the golden, bubbly cheese on top, you'll know it's worth every step.
01What you'll need
Ingredients
11 items · 4-6
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
02How to make it
Step-by-step
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon or your hands, fill each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture. Be generous but gentle to avoid breaking the shells.
Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells.
Bake the Shells
Drizzle the olive oil over the top and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
03From our kitchen
Cook's tips
- You can prepare stuffed shells up to a day in advance. Just cover them in the fridge and bake when ready.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian version, add chopped spinach to the ricotta filling. For a meatier dish, include cooked sausage.
Cook's note
Stuffed shells are a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
04Frequently asked
Questions & answers
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Cover the dish tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What type of sauce works best?
A classic marinara sauce works great, but you can also try a creamy Alfredo or a spicy arrabbiata for a different flavor.
How do I prevent the shells from sticking?
Drizzle a little olive oil over the cooked shells or rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking.
05Keep cooking
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