Stuffed Shells with Cheese

Name: Stuffed Shells with Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 12 large pasta shells; 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella for topping

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Stuffed Shells with Cheese because they're not just delicious, but also incredibly comforting. As I prepare this dish, I relish every step, from filling the oversized shells to the decadent layers of melted cheese bubbling in the oven. It's a dish that brings a sense of warmth, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Honestly, the joy of sharing these cheesy delights with loved ones makes the effort worthwhile. I can already envision the smiling faces as they take a bite into this creamy goodness!

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-08T10:37:37.621Z

Creating stuffed shells has always been a joyous adventure for me. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and freshly grated Parmesan is what makes this dish sing. I find that adding a touch of parsley elevates the flavor without overshadowing the creamy center. One tip I picked up is not to overcook the pasta before filling them; they should maintain a slight firmness for the perfect texture.

When I was experimenting with different sauces, I settled on a homemade marinara that provides a vibrant acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese. It’s really the best of both worlds—a match made in culinary heaven! Each bite is a little pocket of flavor that's satisfying and indulgent.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Generous filling of rich, creamy cheeses
Hearty pasta shells that are perfect for sharing
Versatile dish that you can customize with various sauces

      

Harnessing the Power of Cheese

The filling for these stuffed shells is a heavenly blend of cheeses that not only adds richness but also creates a creamy texture that holds together beautifully when baked. Ricotta cheese serves as the base, providing a mild flavor and a creamy mouthfeel. The addition of mozzarella brings that gooey factor we all crave, while Parmesan contributes a sharpness that balances the richness. Make sure to mix the filling thoroughly until it is smooth to avoid any lumps, which can disrupt the texture when the shells are baked.

In crafting your filling, consider adding some fresh herbs beyond parsley. Basil, oregano, or even a hint of garlic powder can enhance the flavor profile, making each bite even more delightful. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings according to your taste; a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a nice kick if you’re feeling adventurous. I'm always experimenting with the filling, and it’s a great way to personalize this dish.

Mastering the Marinara Sauce

While store-bought marinara sauce can be convenient, making your own is surprisingly simple and can elevate the dish significantly. Start with a can of crushed tomatoes and add sautéed garlic and onions, simmering them until fragrant before adding Italian seasoning. This homemade version can offer deeper flavors that complement the cheesy stuffing perfectly. Remember to taste as you go, adjusting acidity with a pinch of sugar or brightness with a spritz of lemon juice to achieve a well-rounded sauce.

When pouring the marinara over the stuffed shells, use enough sauce to keep the dish moist while baking. A good rule of thumb is to coat the shells evenly, but not to drown them — this helps the cheese on top achieve a nice golden crust while keeping the filling warm and creamy. Don't forget to save a bit of sauce for serving on the side; it brightens the plate and provides an extra burst of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Stuffed shells are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as it may take an additional 10-15 minutes if the dish goes into the oven cold. Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked stuffed shells for up to two months. To freeze, layer them in a freezer-safe dish, separating each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen stuffed shells, there’s no need to defrost them beforehand; simply cover with foil and bake from frozen, adding about 30 minutes to the cooking time. This makes for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special. I love pulling out a dish from the freezer on a busy day; the comforting aroma fills the kitchen and reminds me of family gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Filling

15 oz ricotta cheese
1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinara Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil

For Assembly

12 large pasta shells
0.5 cup shredded mozzarella for topping

Prepare all the ingredients before starting your assembly for easy workflow.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling water, cook the pasta shells until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5 minutes.

Stuff the Shells

Carefully fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and arrange them in a baking dish.

Assemble and Bake

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.

Serve

Allow the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy creation!

Pair your stuffed shells with a side salad or garlic bread for a perfect meal.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the cheese filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses for varied taste profiles.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these stuffed shells is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a variety of accompaniments. A light side salad with a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the dish with fresh, crunchy elements. You might also consider garlic bread for that classic combination; the buttery, crisp slices provide the perfect vehicle to mop up any leftover marinara sauce.

For a touch of color and flavor, sprinkle your baked shells with fresh basil or parsley before serving. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also elevate the presentation, adding both a sweet and tangy finish that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling. Don’t forget a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top right before serving; it melts slightly and adds an irresistible salty bite.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your shells tend to break during the stuffing process, it may be due to overcooking them. Always aim for al dente, as this ensures they retain integrity during baking. Additionally, using a small spoon can help you carefully scoop the filling without applying too much pressure on the shells. If you’re worried about them tearing, try using a piping bag for filling — it’s a game-changer!

Another common issue is having the cheese on top not brown enough. If this happens, you can broil the dish for a couple of minutes at the end of baking. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning. This little trick caramelizes the cheese, creating a beautiful golden layer that adds flavor and visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and sour cream as alternatives.

→ Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, they freeze well! Just ensure they are well-wrapped and store them in an airtight container.

→ What sauce works best with stuffed shells?

A traditional marinara sauce complements the cheesy filling perfectly, but you can also use Alfredo or pesto for a twist!