Delicious Cheesy Stuffed Shells Recipe

4 stars
3.60 (12)
Delicious Cheesy Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
60 mins
Total Time:
80mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on February 02, 2024

This cheesy stuffed shells recipe is a classic Italian dish that is loved by everyone. Tender pasta shells are stuffed with a creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese filling, topped with a rich marinara sauce, and baked until golden and bubbly. It is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. With the perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

  • 1 box jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
  4. Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
  5. Take one cooked pasta shell at a time and spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture into each shell. Place the filled shell in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining shells.
  6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them evenly.
  7. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the shells. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
  10. Serve the cheesy stuffed shells hot and enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Stuffed shells are also known as conchiglioni in Italian.
  • The shells are often filled with a mixture of cheese, meat, vegetables, or a combination of ingredients.
  • This dish is perfect for freezing, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
  • You can customize the filling by adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Leftovers are just as delicious as the day it was made and can be reheated easily in the microwave.