Cheesy Stuffed Shells: A Comfort Food Classic

Cheesy stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort food. Large pasta shells, brimming with a creamy, flavorful ricotta cheese filling, smothered in marinara sauce, and baked until bubbly and golden brown – what’s not to love? This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. While it might seem a little involved, each step is simple, and the result is well worth the time. Plus, stuffed shells freeze beautifully, making them a fantastic make-ahead meal.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Comforting and Delicious:** The combination of pasta, cheese, and marinara sauce is a classic for a reason.
* **Easy to Customize:** You can easily adapt the filling and sauce to your preferences.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** Prepare the shells ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to eat.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** Stuffed shells freeze well, making them perfect for meal prepping.
* **Impressive Presentation:** Stuffed shells look beautiful on a plate, making them a great dish for entertaining.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

### For the Shells:

* 1 (12-ounce) box jumbo pasta shells
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt, for pasta water

### For the Ricotta Filling:

* 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese

### For the Sauce:

* 24-26 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
* Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, for a little heat
* Optional: Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large pot
* Colander
* Large bowl
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Spoon or piping bag

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break down how to make these amazing cheesy stuffed shells:

### Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Adding salt to the water is crucial for flavoring the pasta.
2. Add the jumbo shells to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes. You want them to be al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked shells will be difficult to stuff and prone to tearing.
3. Drain the shells in a colander and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps to prevent them from sticking together. Gently toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to further prevent sticking.
4. Spread the cooked shells out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel. This will prevent them from sticking together while you prepare the filling. Make sure the shells are spaced apart.

### Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. The egg acts as a binder, helping the filling hold its shape.
2. If desired, add the optional mozzarella cheese for extra cheesy flavor. You can also add other ingredients like cooked spinach or Italian sausage at this stage.
3. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the ricotta filling tough. You want a smooth and creamy consistency.
4. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or garlic powder to suit your preferences.

### Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the shells from sticking to the bottom and adds extra flavor.
3. Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cooked shell with the ricotta cheese mixture. A piping bag can make the process faster and neater, but a spoon works just as well. Don’t overfill the shells, as the filling will expand slightly during baking.
4. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, seam-side up, on top of the marinara sauce. Make sure the shells are snug but not overcrowded. You may need to use two baking dishes depending on the size of your shells.
5. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover them completely. This will keep the shells moist and prevent them from drying out during baking.
6. If desired, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese or mozzarella cheese on top for an even cheesier finish. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

### Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Shells

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will prevent the shells from browning too quickly and help to keep them moist.
2. Bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. The shells should be lightly golden brown around the edges.
3. If the top of the shells starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil.
4. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the stuffed shells rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, for a pop of color and flavor.

### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the cheesy stuffed shells hot, straight from the oven. They are delicious on their own or with a side salad and garlic bread.
2. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
3. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave on medium power until warm.

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t overcook the pasta:** Overcooked shells will be difficult to stuff and prone to tearing. Cook them al dente.
* **Use high-quality ricotta cheese:** The quality of the ricotta cheese will affect the overall flavor of the dish. Look for a brand that is smooth and creamy.
* **Don’t overmix the filling:** Overmixing the ricotta filling can make it tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
* **Taste and adjust the seasoning:** Be sure to taste the filling and sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences.
* **Don’t overcrowd the baking dish:** Overcrowding the baking dish can prevent the shells from cooking evenly. Use two baking dishes if necessary.
* **Cover with foil:** Covering the baking dish with foil during the first part of baking will prevent the shells from browning too quickly and help to keep them moist.
* **Let them rest:** Letting the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes before serving allows the filling to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny.

## Variations and Additions

This recipe is easily customizable to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

* **Add meat:** Brown some ground beef, Italian sausage, or turkey and add it to the ricotta filling for a heartier dish. Drain off any excess grease before adding the meat.
* **Add vegetables:** Sauté some spinach, mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers and add them to the ricotta filling for extra flavor and nutrients. Make sure to remove any excess moisture from the vegetables before adding them.
* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses in the filling, such as mozzarella, provolone, or fontina. You can also use a combination of cheeses.
* **Use different sauces:** Try using a different sauce, such as pesto, Alfredo, or a creamy tomato sauce. You can even make your own homemade sauce.
* **Make it spicy:** Add some red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling or the marinara sauce for a little heat. You can also use a spicy Italian sausage.
* **Add herbs:** Experiment with different herbs in the ricotta filling, such as basil, thyme, or rosemary. Fresh herbs will provide the best flavor.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Omit the meat and add extra vegetables for a delicious vegetarian meal.
* **Add a crispy topping:** Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese and sprinkle over the stuffed shells before baking for a crispy topping.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

Cheesy stuffed shells are a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance.

1. Assemble the stuffed shells according to the recipe instructions.
2. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
3. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed in the recipe, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure the shells are heated through.

## Freezing Instructions

Stuffed shells freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prepping.

1. Assemble the stuffed shells according to the recipe instructions.
2. Let them cool completely.
3. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can transfer the stuffed shells to a freezer-safe container.
4. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
5. To bake from frozen, thaw the stuffed shells in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake as directed in the recipe, adding an extra 20-25 minutes to the baking time to ensure the shells are heated through. You may need to cover the baking dish with foil for a longer period of time to prevent the shells from browning too quickly.

## Serving Suggestions

Cheesy stuffed shells are a complete meal on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides.

* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, add extra nutrients and flavor.
* **Caprese Salad:** A Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is a light and flavorful option.
* **Soup:** A warm bowl of soup, such as tomato soup or minestrone, is a comforting addition to the meal.

## Nutritional Information (estimated per serving)

* Calories: 400-500
* Protein: 20-25g
* Fat: 20-25g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Cheesy Stuffed Shells Recipe Card

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 30 minutes
**Cook time:** 35-40 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 (12-ounce) box jumbo pasta shells
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt, for pasta water
* 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
* 24-26 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
* Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, for a little heat
* Optional: Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

**Equipment:**

* Large pot
* Colander
* Large bowl
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Spoon or piping bag

**Instructions:**

1. Cook the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Toss with olive oil.
2. Prepare the ricotta filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Assemble the stuffed shells: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Fill each cooked shell with the ricotta cheese mixture and arrange in the baking dish, seam-side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or mozzarella cheese, if desired.
4. Bake the stuffed shells: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot.

**Nutrition:** *Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

Enjoy your delicious and comforting cheesy stuffed shells! This is a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Feel free to experiment with different variations and additions to make it your own. Happy cooking!