Stuffed Shells: Creamy, Cheesy, Baked Italian Goodness
Stuffed shellsβconchiglioni ripieniβare like little pasta boats filled with creamy ricotta, savory herbs, and melty mozzarella, all baked in bubbling marinara sauce. This is comfort food Italian-style, perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests at your next gathering.
π₯ Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
- Β½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
π² Instructions
Cook the Shells: Boil the jumbo shells in salted water until just al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain, rinse with cool water, and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, mozzarella, Parmigiano-Reggiano, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Stuff the Shells: Fill each shell generously with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
Assemble the Dish: Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange stuffed shells on top. Spoon more sauce over the shells and sprinkle with extra mozzarella.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375Β°F (190Β°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10β15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or more grated Parmigiano if desired.
π¦ Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Create the Best Stuffed Shells
- π Jumbo Pasta Shells β Large shells ready to hold rich, cheesy fillings.
- π§ Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese β Creamy and smooth, perfect for a classic filling.
- π Marinara Sauce β A rich, flavorful sauce to blanket your baked shells.
- π§ Italian Seasoning Blend β Elevates your filling with a balanced mix of herbs.
- π§ Ceramic Baking Dish β Ensures even baking and a beautiful presentation.
- π₯ Piping Bag Set β Makes filling shells fast, neat, and easy.
Pro Tip: These freeze beautifully! Assemble the shells in a foil tray, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or gifting to friends in need of comfort food.