Jumbo Shells With Cheese Filling
Creamy cheese-filled jumbo shells baked in rich marinara sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests with flavorful Italian-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare pasta as directed on the package, cooking for 9 minutes; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain and arrange in a single layer to fill.
- Meanwhile, mix together Ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Fill the cooked shells with the cheese mixture.
- Cover the bottom of a roasting pan with some of the spaghetti sauce.
- Arrange the filled shells in a single layer in the pan.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the shells.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until hot.
- Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cottage cheese to the Ricotta mixture. If you want a little more flavor, try incorporating some minced garlic or chopped spinach. You can also substitute the mozzarella with provolone for a different taste. If you don't have jumbo shells, stuffed cannelloni can work in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Jumbo Shells with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a satisfying meal. Pairing with a light red wine or sparkling water can enhance the flavors. For a twist, consider serving alongside a slice of Vegetarian Lasagne (Heart Healthy) to offer variety on the table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Jumbo Shells With Cheese Filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jumbo Shells With Cheese Filling contains roughly 771 calories, with 18g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1207mg per serving (52% 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 and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to fill the shells and bake them on the day you plan to serve them for the best texture.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese as a substitute. Blend it to a smoother consistency if desired. Cream cheese can also work in a pinch, though it will provide a richer flavor. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain balance in the dish.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! These stuffed shells freeze well. Assemble the dish, but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes it perfect for the 'Eat One-Freeze One' Italian Casserole meal prep method.
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).