Jumbo Shells
Jumbo shells stuffed with a creamy cheese mixture, baked in savory tomato or meat sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook shells in plenty of boiling, salted water for 12 to 15 minutes; drain.
- Combine Ricotta, Mozzarella and beaten eggs; blend with salt, pepper and parsley.
- Fill each shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in a rectangular baking dish.
- Place stuffed shells in the dish, one layer deep; top with remaining sauce.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese; cover with a sheet of aluminum foil.
- Bake at 350°F for about 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the filling, consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms. If you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese can be a good substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly. For a touch of spice, mix in some red pepper flakes. Ensure your shells are al dente before filling, as they will continue to cook in the oven. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Mini Focaccia Rounds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the jumbo shells hot, garnished with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. A simple green salad dressed with Near Olive Garden Dressing complements this dish well. For a heartier meal, pair with garlic bread or a side of Italian recipes like roasted vegetables. This dish is satisfying enough to be a main course on its own.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, adding a splash of sauce to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jumbo Shells contains roughly 462 calories, with 12g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 491mg per serving (21% 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 filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to fill the shells and bake them on the day you plan to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Can I freeze the filled shells?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be baked directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What type of sauce should I use?
You can use either a marinara sauce or a meat sauce, depending on your preference. A homemade tomato sauce adds freshness, while a store-bought option offers convenience. For a twist, try incorporating a bit of pesto into your sauce for added 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).