Three Cheese Stuffed Shells
Creamy three cheese stuffed shells loaded with ricotta, cheddar, and mozzarella, baked in savory spaghetti sauce; perfect for comforting family dinners and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the shells until al dente, drain, and cool.
- Mix ricotta, cheddar, mozzarella cheeses, eggs, salt, parsley, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Stuff the cheese mixture into each cooked shell.
- Pour half of the spaghetti sauce into the bottom of two 9x13-inch pans.
- Place the stuffed shells in the pans, close together.
- Top the shells with the remaining spaghetti sauce and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of ricotta to the mozzarella. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half of the ricotta with cottage cheese. Using homemade spaghetti sauce can elevate the flavors, and for added depth, mix in some sautéed garlic or onions. To save time, you can prepare the shells and filling a day in advance.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed shells are best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven. Serve them with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with Italian recipes like a classic Caesar salad or roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, consider serving with steamed asparagus or a simple cucumber salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can add a splash of water to the dish to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three Cheese Stuffed Shells contains roughly 1280 calories, with 42g protein, 229g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (156% of the Daily Value), potassium (88% of the Daily Value), and protein (84% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2052mg per serving (89% 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 shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just add the sauce right before baking. This makes for an easy weeknight dinner when time is tight.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes, stuffed shells freeze well. Before baking, arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you're looking for a substitution for ricotta, consider using mascarpone for a richer taste, or blend cottage cheese until smooth for a low-fat option. Cream cheese can also work in a pinch, offering a denser texture and 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).