Easy Stuffed Shells

why make this recipe

Easy Stuffed Shells are a delightful and hearty dish that combines rich flavors with a comforting texture. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. Filled with creamy cheese and pasta, it’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile; you can add spinach for extra nutrition or adjust the spices to your liking.

how to make Easy Stuffed Shells

Ingredients:

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Spinach (optional)
• Marinara sauce
• Salt
• Pepper
• Italian seasoning

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, spinach (if using), salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture.
5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
7. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
10. Let it cool slightly before serving.

how to serve Easy Stuffed Shells

Serve Easy Stuffed Shells warm, right out of the oven. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for an extra pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.

how to store Easy Stuffed Shells

If you have leftovers, store Easy Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, just make sure to cover them well to prevent freezer burn.

tips to make Easy Stuffed Shells

• Make sure the pasta shells are not overcooked; they should be al dente to hold the cheese filling well.
• Mix in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
• For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the cheese filling or the marinara sauce.

variation (if any)

You can customize Easy Stuffed Shells by adding cooked ground meat like beef or turkey in the cheese mixture. For a lighter version, swap the ricotta for cottage cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

FAQs

Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them well with foil.

How do I reheat stuffed shells?

To reheat, cover the shells with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them on a plate for a quick option.

Can I use different sauces?

Absolutely! While marinara sauce is traditional, you can also try Alfredo sauce, pesto, or a simple olive oil and garlic sauce for different flavors.

Easy Stuffed Shells

Easy Stuffed Shells are a delightful and hearty dish filled with creamy cheese and pasta, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the filling

• 1 package Jumbo pasta shells
• 15 oz Ricotta cheese
• 8 oz Mozzarella cheese shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 1 Egg large
• 1 cup Spinach optional, chopped
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the baking

• 2 cups Marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese for topping

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, spinach (if using), salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture.
5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
7. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top.

Baking

1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
3. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente to hold the cheese filling. You can also add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.