A comforting baked pasta dish filled with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, these stuffed shells deliver all the satisfaction of a cozy Italian-inspired meal with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknights, gatherings, and make-ahead dinners, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish brings together tender pasta shells, a smooth and cheesy filling, and rich marinara sauce in one warming bake. The recipe is simple, approachable, and uses familiar pantry staples, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. It’s also naturally vegetarian, customizable, and designed for both make-ahead preparation and easy reheating.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
30 jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ricotta cheese (about 2 heaping cups)
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (12 ounces), divided
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 jar marinara sauce (24 ounces / 3 cups), divided
2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F and position a rack in the center.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions. Drain and rinse briefly with cold water until cool enough to handle.
In a large bowl, mix the ricotta, 2 cups of the shredded mozzarella, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Fill each cooled shell with a heaping tablespoon of the cheese mixture and arrange them filling-side up in the dish.
Pour the remaining 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the shells.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and the grated Parmesan or Pecorino on top.
Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the sauce bubbles around the edges.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: about 20 minutes
Cook time: about 30 minutes
Total time: about 50 minutes
Variations
– Add sautéed spinach or kale to the ricotta mixture for a nutritious twist.
– Use a spicy marinara sauce for a hint of heat.
– Mix in fresh basil or oregano for extra herbal flavor.
– Swap part of the ricotta with cottage cheese for a slightly lighter filling.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven until warmed through, or microwave individual servings until hot. The assembled dish can be prepared up to 12 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking. You can also freeze the fully baked and cooled dish; thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
FAQs
How do I keep the pasta shells from tearing?
Cook them until just al dente and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking and make them easier to handle.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, the cheese filling can be mixed 24 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze stuffed shells before baking?
Yes, assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze. Bake from thawed for best results.
What type of marinara works best?
A smooth, good-quality marinara complements the creamy filling, but any favorite brand or homemade sauce works.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be mixed into the ricotta blend.
Can I use different cheeses?
You can substitute part of the mozzarella with provolone or part of the Parmesan with Romano.
How do I prevent watery filling?
Drain any excess liquid from the ricotta or use a higher-quality ricotta with less moisture.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells.
What should I serve with stuffed shells?
Pair with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use two baking dishes and increase the sauce and cheese proportionally.
Conclusion
These easy stuffed shells bring together creamy cheese, tender pasta, and rich marinara in one comforting, fuss-free dish. With its make-ahead convenience, customizable options, and crowd-pleasing flavor, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights at home. Enjoy a timeless favorite that never disappoints.
A comforting and simple baked pasta dish featuring jumbo shells filled with creamy ricotta and mozzarella, topped with rich marinara sauce and baked until bubbly. Perfect for cozy dinners and easy entertaining.
