This easy stuffed shells recipe is a classic cheesy pasta dinner made with ricotta, spinach, marinara, and mozzarella. Perfect for family meals, party dinners, or comforting weeknight recipes, this traditional stuffed pasta shells dish is rich, satisfying, and simple to make in just a few steps. Try this must-try dinner recipe for a warm and hearty meal everyone will love. Discover the full recipe.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Stuffed shells recipe is one of the most popular comfort food dishes made with jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich cheese mixture. This stuffed shells recipe combines ricotta, spinach, mozzarella, and marinara sauce to create a balanced and satisfying dinner.
Many home cooks prefer this stuffed shells recipe because it is simple, practical, and works well for both weeknight dinners and party meals. The creamy filling paired with baked pasta creates a warm and filling dish that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jumbo pasta shells | 18–20 |
| Olive oil | 1–2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Spinach | 4 cups |
| Ricotta cheese | 15 oz |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 3 cups |
| Cream cheese | 2 tbsp |
| Egg | 1 |
| Marinara sauce | 24 oz |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish |
Seasonings
| Seasoning | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Pepper | ¼ tsp |
| Dried basil | ½ tsp |
| Dried parsley | ½ tsp |
| Dried oregano | ½ tsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the stuffed shells evenly.
2. Cook the Pasta Shells
Boil the jumbo pasta shells in salted water for about 13 minutes or until slightly firm. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop cooking.
3. Cook the Spinach
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook briefly, then add spinach and cook until wilted. Let it cool.
4. Make the Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, basil, parsley, and oregano. Add half of the mozzarella and most of the Parmesan. Stir in cream cheese and egg, then fold in spinach mixture.
5. Assemble the Dish
Spread half of the marinara sauce in a baking dish. Fill each shell with the cheese mixture and arrange them evenly.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Bake the Stuffed Shells
Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Remove cover and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Helpful Tips
- Use extra shells in case some break during boiling
- Let spinach cool before mixing to avoid watery filling
- Do not overcook pasta shells before stuffing
- Add extra cheese for a richer texture
Conclusion
This stuffed shells recipe is a dependable and flavorful dinner choice that works well for both everyday meals and special occasions. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it delivers a satisfying and comforting dish that is always well received.
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Stuffed Shells Recipe – Classic Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells Dinner
Description
Classic stuffed shells recipe with ricotta, spinach, marinara, and melted mozzarella, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
18–20 jumbo pasta shells
1–2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups spinach
15 oz ricotta
1/2 cup parmesan
3 cups mozzarella
2 tbsp cream cheese
1 egg
24 oz marinara sauce
Fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Boil pasta shells until slightly firm and rinse.
3. Cook garlic and spinach in olive oil.
4. Mix ricotta, seasonings, cheeses, egg, and spinach.
5. Fill shells and place in baking dish with sauce.
6. Top with sauce and cheese.
7. Bake covered 20 minutes, uncovered 10 minutes.
Notes
Do not overcook pasta shells.
Let filling cool before stuffing.
Great for meal prep and freezing.
FAQ
What is the best cheese for stuffed shells recipe?
Ricotta is the main cheese used, combined with mozzarella and Parmesan for flavor and texture.
Can stuffed shells recipe be made ahead?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
How do you store leftover stuffed shells recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can you freeze stuffed shells recipe?
Yes, stuffed shells freeze well before or after baking. Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.