Stuffed Jumbo Shells

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting Italian meal, Stuffed Jumbo Shells are here to satisfy that need. These pasta shells are generously filled with a delicious blend of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and savory herbs, then smothered in marinara sauce and baked until golden and bubbling. The combination of creamy filling, tangy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this dish an instant favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe is as hearty as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Jumbo Shells

• Comforting & Hearty: This dish has all the qualities of a classic Italian comfort meal—cheesy, savory, and incredibly satisfying.
• Make Ahead & Freezer Friendly: You can prepare these shells in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick, delicious meal later.
• Kid-Friendly: With the cheesy filling and rich marinara sauce, this recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping, and the leftovers taste just as amazing the next day.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the filling to your liking—add spinach, ground meat, or more cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients

These stuffed shells come together with simple, easy-to-find ingredients:

For the Filling:

• Ricotta Cheese: The creamy base of the filling. It’s smooth, rich, and pairs perfectly with the other cheeses.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a melty, gooey texture when baked. It also gives the dish that irresistible cheesy pull.
• Parmesan Cheese: For a little extra sharpness and depth of flavor.
• Egg: Helps bind the filling together.
• Garlic Powder: A hint of garlic flavor to make the filling more savory.
• Dried Italian Herbs: A mixture of oregano, basil, and thyme for that authentic Italian flavor.
• Spinach (Optional): If you want to sneak in some greens, adding spinach gives the filling a nice boost of flavor and color.

For the Sauce:

• Marinara Sauce: The classic tangy tomato sauce that pairs perfectly with the stuffed shells.
• Olive Oil: A little drizzle for extra flavor when baking.
• Fresh Basil (Optional): For garnish and a pop of freshness.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s walk through how to make these stuffed jumbo shells:

1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions, about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, and spinach (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
4. Stuff the Shells: Carefully stuff each cooked jumbo shell with the cheese filling, using a spoon or your hands. Place the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish, arranging them side by side.
5. Add the Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. If you have leftover sauce, spoon it around the edges of the dish.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the shells are heated through.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350
Total Carbs: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Net Carbs: 37g
Fat: 18g
Protein: 17g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Here are some ideas for what to pair with your stuffed jumbo shells:

• Garlic Bread: Nothing beats a slice of warm, buttery garlic bread to scoop up any extra sauce left on your plate.
• Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich, cheesy shells.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli for a side that adds both flavor and nutrition.
• Shaved Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly shaved Parmesan on top before serving takes this dish to the next level.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance. Simply assemble them, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing: Stuffed shells freeze wonderfully! Assemble the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen for 60-75 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick, or mix in some sausage or ground beef for added protein.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the filling for a hearty vegetarian option.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ricotta cheese substitute?
A1: Yes! You can use cottage cheese or even a dairy-free ricotta if you need a substitution. Just make sure it’s smooth and creamy.

Q2: Can I add meat to the filling?
A2: Absolutely! You can add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the ricotta mixture for a meatier dish.

Q3: Can I make these shells with regular pasta?
A3: Yes, but you’ll need to use a different shape of pasta. Cannelloni tubes are a great alternative if you can’t find jumbo shells.

Q4: Can I make this dish in advance?
A4: Yes! You can assemble the shells ahead of time, then store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Q5: Can I use a homemade marinara sauce?
A5: Definitely! If you prefer homemade sauce, just make sure it’s well-seasoned and thick enough to coat the shells.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or in the microwave.

Q7: Can I freeze stuffed shells?
A7: Yes! Stuffed shells freeze well. Just make sure to cover them tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. Bake from frozen when you’re ready to eat.

Q8: Can I use other types of cheese?
A8: Yes! You can use a variety of cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even goat cheese to add different flavors to the filling.

Q9: How can I make the shells more creamy?
A9: For a creamier filling, mix in a little heavy cream or cream cheese with the ricotta cheese.

Q10: How do I make sure the pasta doesn’t stick together?
A10: Make sure to cook the jumbo shells al dente, as they’ll soften more while baking. Also, toss the cooked shells with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

These Stuffed Jumbo Shells are a perfect blend of cheesy, saucy goodness that will warm you from the inside out. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a comforting, flavorful meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed shells are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try them today and get ready for a cozy, satisfying dinner!

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