Go Back
Cheesy stuffed shells filled with ricotta and mozzarella cheese, topped with marinara sauce.

Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Cheesy stuffed shells are a delightful comfort food filled with creamy cheese and savory ingredients, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce

  • 20 pieces jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Cheese Filling

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  • In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir well until fully combined.

Filling and Baking

  • Take a shell and fill it with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag. Repeat until all shells are filled.
  • Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking dish.
  • Place the filled shells in the baking dish, seam side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Send me this recipe!

Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!

Notes

Cheesy stuffed shells freeze well; wrap tightly for up to three months. Consider adding sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition.
Keyword Baked Dish, Cheesy Stuffed Shells, Comfort Food, Family Recipe, Pasta Dish