Stuffed Noodles
Creamy stuffed pasta shells with rich meat sauce and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting family dinner or entertaining guests with classic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the jumbo shells until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make spaghetti sauce by heating the jar of spaghetti sauce in a pan.
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
- In a mixing bowl, stir the cream cheese and eggs until smooth.
- Add salt, parsley, and pepper to the cream cheese mixture and combine.
- Pour about 1/2 cup of spaghetti sauce into the bottom of a baking pan.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture.
- Set the stuffed shells in the prepared pan over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over all the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamy filling, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing with the eggs. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the hamburger. You can also use a homemade pasta sauce instead of jarred; it elevates the dish. Add extra herbs or Italian seasoning for more flavor. Consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the stuffing for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed noodles with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a nice touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian Style Pork Chops or a simple Fettuccine With Ham for a more robust dinner. Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a classic Italian experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed noodles in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Noodles contains roughly 601 calories, with 29g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (132% of the Daily Value), iron (125% of the Daily Value), and potassium (64% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 695mg per serving (30% 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 stuffed noodles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Assemble them in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through.
What can I use instead of jumbo shells?
If you can't find jumbo shells, you can use manicotti or even large conchiglie pasta. Just ensure the filling can fit inside the pasta you choose. Adjust cooking times for the pasta according to package directions for al dente texture.
Can I freeze stuffed noodles?
Yes, you can freeze stuffed noodles before baking. Assemble the dish, cover with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding extra time if baking from frozen.
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).