Easy Stuffed Shells

Have you been searching for that perfect comfort food recipe that looks impressive but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? These Easy Stuffed Shells might just become your new weeknight hero! I first discovered this dish when I needed a crowd-pleaser for a potluck, and I’ve been making it regularly ever since.

What makes these stuffed shells so special is the perfect balance of creamy ricotta filling, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. The jumbo pasta shells create little pockets of flavor that burst with each bite, making this dish a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste – add some spinach for extra nutrition, spice it up with red pepper flakes, or swap in your favorite cheese blend. I’ve found that preparing the shells ahead of time makes for an effortless dinner option when life gets busy. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

Trust me, once you see how simple these stuffed shells are to make and how quickly they disappear from the table, you’ll understand why this Italian-American classic has stood the test of time. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Easy Stuffed Shells

For the Shells and Filling:

• 12 oz (about 24-30) jumbo pasta shells
• 32 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred for creamier texture)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 24 oz (3 cups) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

How to Make Easy Stuffed Shells

Preparing the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt (about 1 tablespoon).
2. Cook the jumbo shells according to package directions, but reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes to keep them slightly firmer than al dente. They’ll continue cooking in the oven.
3. Carefully drain the shells in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Lay the shells out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set aside while preparing the filling.

Making the Sauce (if enhancing store-bought)

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in your marinara sauce and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Remove from heat and set aside.

Preparing the Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups of the mozzarella (reserving 1/2 cup for topping), and 3/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese (reserving 1/4 cup for topping).
3. Add the beaten eggs and mix well to combine.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped basil, parsley, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The filling should be thick and creamy but not runny.

Assembling the Dish

1. Spread 1 cup of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture. Don’t overfill, as the shells may split.
3. Arrange the filled shells in the baking dish, placing them seam-side up to prevent the filling from spilling out.
4. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover them evenly.
5. Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top.

Baking

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese.
2. Bake covered for 25 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges turn golden brown.
4. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Serving Suggestions

These Easy Stuffed Shells are a versatile main dish that pairs wonderfully with numerous side options. Here are some delicious ways to round out your meal:

Bread Options

• Garlic bread: The ultimate companion for any Italian dish, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Focaccia: A soft Italian flatbread with herbs that complements the flavors of the stuffed shells.
• Simple crusty Italian bread: Sometimes, the classics are best. A slice of good Italian bread with a drizzle of olive oil is all you need.

Salad Pairings

• Caesar salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy shells.
• Italian salad with vinaigrette: Mix romaine, radicchio, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and pepperoncini with an Italian vinaigrette for a classic pairing.
• Arugula salad with lemon dressing: The peppery arugula and bright lemon dressing cut through the richness of the dish.
• Caprese salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light, fresh accompaniment.

Vegetable Sides

• Roasted broccoli with garlic: Simple but delicious, roasted until slightly charred for maximum flavor.
• Sautéed spinach with olive oil and garlic: A traditional Italian side that adds color and nutrition.
• Grilled asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus spears add texture and a slightly smoky flavor.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: When caramelized in the oven, they provide a wonderful contrast to the creamy shells.

Wine Pairings

• Chianti: This medium-bodied red wine with notes of cherry and herbs is a classic match for tomato-based Italian dishes.
• Pinot Grigio: If you prefer white wine, this crisp, light option complements the cheese without overwhelming the dish.
• Sangiovese: Another Italian red that pairs beautifully with the tomato sauce and cheese.
• Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay can match the creaminess of the ricotta filling.

Serving Style

For a family-style meal, place the baking dish directly on the table (on a trivet to protect your table) with a large serving spoon. Alternatively, plate individual portions with 4-5 shells per person, garnished with fresh basil leaves, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of good olive oil. For a restaurant-quality presentation, use a ladle to create a small pool of warm marinara sauce on each plate before placing the shells on top.

Conclusion

Easy Stuffed Shells represent the perfect balance between impressive presentation and straightforward preparation, making them ideal for both weeknight family dinners and special occasions. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility – while the classic ricotta filling is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

What makes these stuffed shells truly special is how they bring people together. There’s something inherently comforting about a bubbling dish of pasta, cheese, and sauce that makes everyone at the table feel at home. The individual shells create perfect portions that are both satisfying to serve and delightful to eat.

Don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes a regular request in your household. The combination of the tender pasta shells, creamy ricotta filling, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a harmony of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Plus, the make-ahead potential makes this dish even more appealing for busy cooks who want to plan their meals.

Remember that cooking is as much about the joy of creating as it is about the pleasure of eating. Take your time with each step, from boiling the perfect pasta to carefully filling each shell, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that not only tastes amazing but brings a sense of accomplishment as well.

Whether you’re cooking for a quiet family dinner, hosting friends, or contributing to a potluck, these Easy Stuffed Shells will surely impress and satisfy. So next time you’re looking for a comforting pasta dish that delivers big on flavor without demanding too much of your time, remember this recipe – Italian comfort food made simple.

FAQs about Easy Stuffed Shells