Stuffed Pasta Shells
Stuffed pasta shells are a hearty, cheesy dish featuring tender jumbo shells filled with a flavorful ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this baked casserole offers comforting Italian flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta shells as directed on the package and drain.
- Mix ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic in a bowl.
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each cooked shell.
- Pour a thin layer of spaghetti sauce in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Place the stuffed shells open side down in the pan, side by side.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the shells and sprinkle with reserved mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms into the cheese filling. You can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if you prefer a lighter option. If you don't have Italian seasoning, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme will work well. To save time, you can use a store-bought marinara sauce or try making Bill Salveson'S Mozzarella Marinara for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed pasta shells can be served as a main dish alongside a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, pair with roasted vegetables or a side of Italian recipes like Eggplant Parmigiana. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving adds a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed shells 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 for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Pasta Shells contains roughly 588 calories, with 22g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 756mg 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
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
To prevent the pasta shells from sticking, be sure to rinse them under cold water immediately after cooking. Tossing them with a little olive oil can also help keep them separate. Additionally, filling the shells while they are still slightly warm makes it easier to work with them.
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).