Jumbo Shells With Cheese Stuffing
Jumbo shells filled with cheesy ricotta and Parmesan, baked in savory tomato sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the jumbo shells in boiling water until tender, then drain.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, salt, oregano, and pepper.
- Fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of spaghetti sauce in a 9 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining sauce.
- Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To make this dish even creamier, consider adding a dollop of mascarpone cheese to the ricotta mixture. For a twist, you can substitute the spaghetti sauce with Vodka Sauce(For Pasta) or a homemade Marinara. If you prefer a lighter option, use part-skim ricotta and reduce the amount of Parmesan. Ensure the shells are not overcooked during boiling to prevent them from breaking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesy stuffed shells with a fresh side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Rose'S Eggplant Marinara Over Ziti or other Italian recipes. For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. A glass of red wine complements the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jumbo Shells With Cheese Stuffing contains roughly 828 calories, with 17g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (136% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (122% of the Daily Value), and calcium (90% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1285mg per serving (56% 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
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, cottage cheese can be a good substitute. Blend it until smooth for a similar texture. Additionally, cream cheese mixed with a bit of milk can work in a pinch, adding a rich creaminess to the filling.
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).