Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells
Cheese stuffed pasta shells packed with savory meat and cheesy fillings, baked to perfection for a hearty, comforting Italian-inspired meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef or turkey in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Drain off the fat.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce.
- Cover with Saran Wrap and microwave on High for 4 to 6 minutes.
- Combine Ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Stuff the manicotti shells with the cheese mixture.
- In a 13 x 2-inch baking dish sprayed with Pam, arrange the manicotti in a single layer.
- Add the meat sauce to completely cover the manicotti.
- Sprinkle the remaining Mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with Saran Wrap and cook on Medium-high for 30 to 35 minutes, rotating the dish 1/2 turn during cooking.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef, and you can substitute low-fat Ricotta cheese. If you prefer a bit more flavor, add some Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the cheese mixture. To save time, you can use pre-made manicotti shells instead of stuffing them yourself. This dish can also easily be made ahead and baked later.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese stuffed pasta shells with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light drizzle of olive oil and some fresh grated Parmesan cheese on top can elevate the dish further. This recipe pairs beautifully with Italian Beef Roast For Hot Sandwiches Ala Chicago for a hearty dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheese stuffed pasta shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on a microwave-safe plate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells contains roughly 885 calories, with 35g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (71% of the Daily Value), calcium (64% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 979mg per serving (43% 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 freeze the cheese stuffed pasta shells?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled pasta shells before baking. Just cover them tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding extra time if needed.
What can I substitute for Ricotta cheese?
If you don't have Ricotta cheese, you can substitute cottage cheese blended until smooth, or use cream cheese mixed with a little milk for a similar texture. For a dairy-free option, try using silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast and a bit of lemon juice.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef or turkey and replace it with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini. You can add extra cheese or use a meat substitute if desired, making this dish a delicious vegetarian option.
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).