Cheese Filled Shells
Creamy cheese-filled pasta shells baked with rich marinara sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests with delicious, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook jumbo shells according to package instructions; drain.
- Cool in a single layer on waxed paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, eggs, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Fill each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Place the filled shells in the pan with the open side up.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the shells.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding ricotta cheese or mixing in some spinach for added flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half of the cottage cheese with Greek yogurt. To save time, you can use store-bought spaghetti sauce, but homemade sauce will enhance the flavor significantly. This dish is reminiscent of Seashore Lasagna in its comforting, cheesy layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese-filled shells with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Italian recipes featuring marinara or pesto sauces. For a heartier option, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a side of sautéed greens. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the filled shells cool completely, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Filled Shells contains roughly 735 calories, with 23g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (75% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and calcium (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1520mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cheese filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese filling a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to assemble the dish, simply fill the shells and proceed with baking. This can save time on a busy evening.
Can I freeze the cheese-filled shells?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can use ricotta cheese for a creamier texture. Alternatively, blended tofu can serve as a dairy-free option, maintaining a similar consistency while offering a protein boost. Adjust seasonings as needed to enhance flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).