Jumbo Cheese Filled Shells
Creamy cheese-filled shells baked with rich spaghetti sauce create a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings, blending cheesy goodness with savory tomato flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook jumbo shells according to package directions; drain and cool in a single layer on wax paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, eggs, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Fill each cooked shell with about 1 1/2 tablespoons of cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Arrange the filled shells in the pan over the sauce.
- Pour remaining spaghetti sauce over the shells, covering them completely.
- Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 45 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding 1/2 cup of ricotta or cream cheese to the cheese mixture. You can substitute spinach for part of the ricotta for added nutrition. If you're short on time, store-bought spaghetti sauce works well. To prevent shells from breaking, handle them gently during cooking and filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Jumbo Cheese Filled Shells with a side of garlic bread for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the shells perfectly. For a delightful variation, pair with the Best Ever Summer Pasta for a full Italian-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Jumbo Cheese Filled Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jumbo Cheese Filled Shells contains roughly 503 calories, with 14g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (72% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 765mg per serving (33% 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 these shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Assemble them in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow them to come to room temperature before placing them in the oven, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese is a great substitute. Blend it to a smooth consistency for a similar texture. Additionally, cream cheese can be used for a richer filling, or you can try a vegan cream cheese for a plant-based option.
How do I know when the shells are done baking?
The Jumbo Cheese Filled Shells are done when the sauce is bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden, usually around 35 to 45 minutes at 350°F (175°C). You can also check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are heated through.
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).