Stuffed Shells Or Manicotti
Creamy stuffed pasta shells filled with ricotta and mozzarella, baked in a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests with comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil pasta shells in water with 1 tablespoon oil until al dente.
- Drain shells and rinse with cold water.
- Mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and eggs to make the filling.
- Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture.
- Place stuffed shells in a 9 x 13-inch casserole or two small casseroles.
- Spoon spaghetti sauce around the shells.
- Bake immediately or cover and freeze for later. If frozen, thaw in refrigerator before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of ricotta to the spaghetti sauce. If you have fresh spinach or kale, feel free to mix it into the cheese filling for added nutrition. You can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if desired, although the texture will be slightly different. Experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed shells with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving adds a nice touch. For an Italian feast, consider pairing it with other Italian recipes like Gnocchi Di Patate Al Burro or Spaghetti Pizza for a delightful dinner spread.
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 with a little extra sauce to prevent drying out, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Shells Or Manicotti contains roughly 867 calories, with 40g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (85% of the Daily Value), protein (80% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2301mg per serving (100% 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 use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use manicotti tubes instead of stuffed shells. Just be sure to fill them carefully, as they can be more fragile. If you choose to use a different shape, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffed shells and assemble them in the casserole dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to freeze them, make sure to wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
What can I add to the sauce for extra flavor?
Consider adding sautéed onions, garlic, or bell peppers to the spaghetti sauce for an extra flavor boost. You can also incorporate Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
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).