Stuffed Shells with Cheese

Name: Stuffed Shells with Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Stuffed Shells with Cheese because it's such a comforting and satisfying dish. The combination of al dente pasta shells, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella creates a meal that's hard to resist. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests or enjoy a cozy family dinner during the week. I usually make a larger batch and freeze some for later, which makes it even more convenient. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become a family favorite.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-07T12:45:35.142Z

My journey with stuffed shells began during a rainy afternoon when I craved something warm and cheesy. I decided to experiment with different cheeses and spices. What surprised me was how incorporating a touch of fresh basil made a huge difference in flavor. I learned that letting the cheese mixture sit for a few minutes helps it meld together, resulting in a richer filling.

Every time I make these shells, I try different marinara sauces, which adds a unique twist to the dish. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top just before serving elevates the experience even more. Trust me, this dish will be a hit!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta and mozzarella filling that's utterly addictive.
Customizable with your favorite herbs or added veggies.
Perfect for meal prep or special gatherings.

      

Perfecting Your Stuffed Shells

Achieving the ideal texture in stuffed shells depends heavily on cooking the pasta just right. Aim for al dente, which generally means boiling the pasta for 10 to 12 minutes. Overcooking can lead to shells that break apart easily or become mushy when baked. After draining, a quick rinse with cold water can help stop the cooking process and keep them from sticking together during the stuffing phase.

When mixing the filling, the textures matter just as much as the flavors. Using fresh ricotta will create a creamier filling than the store-bought variety, which can sometimes be drier. If you prefer a richer taste, consider adding a hint of lemon zest for brightness or some sautéed spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Ensure the mixture is smooth; lumps can make stuffing the shells more challenging.

Assembly and Baking Tips

As you begin to fill the shells, work carefully to avoid tearing them. Using a piping bag can make this process cleaner and faster, especially if you're preparing a large batch. If you don’t have a piping bag, a sturdy plastic bag with the tip cut off can work in a pinch. Ensure that each shell is generously filled—don’t skimp, as these are the stars of the dish!

The layering of sauce is crucial for a successful bake. When spreading marinara sauce in the baking dish, try to cover the bottom adequately; this prevents the shells from sticking. For an extra flavor boost, mix some herbs into the marinara, such as oregano or garlic powder, before layering. After baking, be patient—allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the cheese set, enhancing the gorgeous stretching effect when you serve!

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Stuffed Shell Ingredients

12 jumbo pasta shells
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce

Feel free to get creative with your cheese combinations or add spinach for extra nutrition!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely to achieve the best flavor and texture.

Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook the jumbo pasta shells for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Carefully fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.

Prepare the Baking Dish

Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle additional mozzarella on top.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until bubbly.

Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding Italian herbs to the marinara sauce or mixing in sautéed veggies with the cheese filling.

Make-Ahead and Freezing

Stuffed shells are fantastic for meal prep. You can assemble everything a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just cover your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When adding cold shells to the oven, you may need to extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure they're heated through.

If you want to freeze stuffed shells, do so before baking them. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, cover with sauce, and then wrap tightly. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking, extending the cooking time if they’re still slightly frozen.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated dining experience, consider garnishing your stuffed shells with fresh herbs right before serving. Chopped parsley or basil adds a vibrant touch and a burst of flavor that complements the dish wonderfully. Pair the shells with a simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese.

To make the meal more filling, serve with crusty garlic bread on the side. The combination of cheesy stuffed shells and warm, buttery bread makes for a comforting dinner that your family will adore. You could even sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the dish for those who enjoy a bit of heat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance, just cover and refrigerate them. Add baking time if cooking from cold.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese for a lighter option, or even cream cheese for a richer flavor.

→ Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, they freeze well! Just assemble them, cover with sauce, and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding time as needed.

→ What variations can I try for this recipe?

Feel free to add spinach, ground meat, or different cheese types to the filling. You can also switch up the sauce to marinara, alfredo, or pesto.