Description
This baked stuffed shells recipe is a classic Italian dish featuring jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce, and baked until bubbly. It’s the perfect make-ahead dinner for weeknights or special occasions, delivering rich, cheesy flavors in every bite. Easy to prepare and loved by the whole family!
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil and parsley, if desired, before serving.
Notes
- Add cooked spinach or ground beef to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor.
- For a richer sauce, use a meat-based marinara or add a bit of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg