Go Back
Stuffed pasta has long held a special place in the hearts of home cooks and food lovers alike. There’s something undeniably comforting about a generous portion of pasta shells filled with savory ingredients, drenched in a rich sauce, and baked to perfection. These delightful creations are more than just a meal; they evoke feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and togetherness, making them a go-to choice for family gatherings, cozy dinners, and festive celebrations.

Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Looking for a comforting dish that’s sure to impress? Try these Cheesy Delight Stuffed Shells! Filled with rich ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan, these jumbo pasta shells are a crowd-pleaser. With easy preparation steps and a delicious marinara sauce, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Elevate your meal with fresh basil and serve with garlic bread or a light salad. Cooking has never been this satisfying!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pasta:

    - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

      Make the Cheese Filling:

        - In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy.

          Stuff the Shells:

            - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a teaspoon or piping bag, fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture. Be generous but ensure you don’t overfill them.

              Assemble the Dish:

                - Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, ensuring they are well-covered. Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

                  Bake:

                    - Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                      Serve:

                        - Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy stuffed shells!

                          Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6