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Homemade Stuffed Shells Recipe photo

Stuffed Shells Recipe

This Stuffed Shells Recipe is a cheesy, comforting delight packed with rich flavors!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

Ingredients

  • 20 pieces jumbo pasta shells cooked to package instructions
  • 1/2 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp salt divided
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper divided
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/4 cup parsley chopped, plus more to garnish

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.
  • In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed onion and garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, dried oregano, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Take each cooked shell and fill it generously with the cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.
  • Once all the shells are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across 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, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with extra parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells hot and fresh!

Notes

  • Customize the filling with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or ground turkey for extra protein.
  • Assemble the shells ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For freezing, wrap unbaked shells in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
  • Bake frozen shells at 375°F for about 45 minutes to reheat.
Keyword Cheesy, Comfort Food, Pasta, Vegetarian