Cheesy Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Italian Classic Worth Every Bite

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Cheesy Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food—hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor. The combination of soft pasta, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella creates a dish that’s as rich as it is comforting. It’s a family-friendly meal that works well for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—add vegetables, meat, or extra herbs for a personalized touch. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time, stored in the fridge or freezer, and baked when you’re ready to serve.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

20–25 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2–3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well-combined.

4. Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish.

5. Stuff each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture and arrange the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish.

6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they’re well-covered.

7. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

10. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6 people (about 4–5 shells per serving)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Spinach Stuffed Shells: Add sautéed spinach to the ricotta mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

• Meat Lover’s Stuffed Shells: Mix in cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken to the cheese filling for a heartier dish.

• Spicy Stuffed Shells: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mix some hot Italian sausage into the filling.

• Herb-Infused: Customize with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for a fragrant twist.

• Cheese Lover’s Version: Use a blend of different cheeses, such as provolone or gouda, for a richer flavor.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells for those with dietary restrictions.

storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
You can also freeze the assembled, unbaked stuffed shells. To bake from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–55 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes to melt the cheese.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance, refrigerate them, and bake them when ready to serve.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

While jumbo shells are traditional, you can use manicotti or any large pasta that can be stuffed.

Can I freeze Cheesy Stuffed Shells?

Yes, these shells freeze well both before and after baking. To freeze unbaked, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I keep the shells from being too dry?

Make sure to generously cover the shells with marinara sauce, and keep the dish covered with foil while baking.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly, but homemade sauce can add extra flavor if you prefer.

What can I serve with stuffed shells?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with stuffed shells.

How many shells should I serve per person?

Typically, 4–5 stuffed shells per person is a good serving size.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella alternatives to make this dish dairy-free.

How do I know when the stuffed shells are fully cooked?

The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden, and the shells should be heated through.

Can I use different cheese in the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses, such as feta, goat cheese, or provolone.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food that combines a rich, creamy filling with savory marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a special gathering with friends. Easy to make, customizable, and great for leftovers, Cheesy Stuffed Shells are a classic meal that will never go out of style.