Tuna Stuffed Shells
Creamy tuna stuffed shells are a comforting dish with savory flavors, perfect for family dinners or entertaining, featuring tender pasta filled with tuna and a creamy soup topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the jumbo shells in boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- Combine drained tuna, bread crumbs, chopped onion, beaten egg, parsley, and lemon juice in a bowl.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the tuna mixture and place in a greased 11 x 7-inch baking dish.
- Mix the cream of celery soup, milk, and remaining parsley, then pour the mixture over the stuffed shells.
- Cover the dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using canned salmon instead of tuna or whole wheat bread crumbs for added fiber. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a little cream cheese with the tuna filling. To enhance flavor, try adding some garlic powder or Italian seasoning. This dish can also be made ahead of time and baked later, which is great for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
These tuna stuffed shells are delicious when served with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving adds a nice touch. They also pair beautifully with Garlic Bread or a side of Captain Broccoli for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tuna stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Stuffed Shells contains roughly 2335 calories, with 43g protein, 441g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (105% of the Daily Value), iron (87% of the Daily Value), and protein (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1713mg per serving (74% 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 instead of jumbo shells?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape that can hold filling, such as manicotti or even small shells. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the right texture.
What can I do if I don't have cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute with cream of mushroom soup or make a quick homemade white sauce. Simply melt butter, whisk in flour, and gradually add milk to create a creamy base.
Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just assemble them in a baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).