Italian stuffed shells are a comfort food classic, featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce and baked to perfection. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping, or even special occasions.

With a cheesy, rich filling and a savory tomato sauce, these stuffed shells will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Italian Comfort Food – Hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare ahead of time and bake when ready.
Customizable – Add meat, extra veggies, or a different cheese blend.
Perfect for Feeding a Crowd – Great for gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells:

• 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Topping:

• ½ cup mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesiness)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • Ricotta cheese
   • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
   • Parmesan cheese
   • Egg
   • Minced garlic
   • Parsley
   • Italian seasoning
   • Salt & pepper
5. Stir until fully combined and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

6. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine:
   • Marinara sauce
   • Garlic powder
   • Onion powder
   • Red pepper flakes (if using)
7. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
10. Fill each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of ricotta filling and place them in the baking dish.
11. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
12. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake & Serve

13. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
14. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
15. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Cooking Tips & Variations

Add Meat – Stir in cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken to the cheese filling for extra protein.
Use Different Cheeses – Swap ricotta for cottage cheese or add fontina or provolone for a unique twist.
Make it Spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce for a little heat.
Vegetarian Twist – Mix in chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a veggie-packed version.

What to Serve with Stuffed Shells

Pair your stuffed shells with:

• Garlic bread – A crispy, buttery side to scoop up extra sauce.
• Caesar salad – A refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy filling.
• Roasted vegetables – Such as broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers.
• A glass of red wine – Like Chianti or Merlot for a true Italian experience.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked stuffed shells in a foil-covered baking dish for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 extra minutes.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish a day in advance and bake when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes! A high-quality store-bought marinara or spaghetti sauce works perfectly.

Can I make this dish without ricotta cheese?

Yes! Substitute cottage cheese, mascarpone, or a mix of cream cheese and Parmesan.

How do I prevent the shells from breaking?

• Cook the shells just until al dente.
• Rinse them with cold water immediately after draining to stop cooking.
• Fill them gently with a spoon or piping bag.

Final Thoughts

Italian stuffed shells are cheesy, saucy, and full of Italian flavors that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious taste of Italy at home!