Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Cheese and Marinara

Classic Italian stuffed shells with cheese and marinara is a comforting and delicious dish that brings the warmth and flavors of Italy right to your dinner table. With its combination of jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, topped with a rich marinara sauce, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even casual weeknight meals. The flavors meld beautifully as the dish bakes, creating a bubbly, golden crust while keeping the inside tender and cheesy.

The recipe is simple to make yet delivers a hearty and satisfying meal. Stuffed shells are a great option for anyone who loves pasta dishes but wants a little extra indulgence. Whether served as a main course or alongside a fresh green salad and garlic bread, this dish will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. The best part is that it’s easy to customize—add your favorite ingredients like spinach, sausage, or extra herbs to make it your own. This dish is sure to be a favorite in your household for years to come.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Italian stuffed shells are everything you want in a comforting, cheesy pasta dish. The combination of three types of cheese—ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—creates a rich and creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the tangy marinara sauce. The jumbo pasta shells hold the filling beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. This dish is incredibly satisfying and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe, allowing you to tweak it with your favorite additions for a personalized twist.

Ingredients

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Dried basil
• Dried oregano
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Marinara sauce

Variations

• Spinach and Ricotta: Add fresh or frozen spinach to the cheese mixture for a nutritious and flavorful twist.
• Meat Lover’s Stuffed Shells: Incorporate cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage into the cheese mixture for a heartier version.
• Spicy Marinara: Use a spicy marinara sauce or add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little extra heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and stuff the shells with a mixture of cheese and sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

Step 2: Cook the pasta

Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the cheese filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Stuff the shells

Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, making sure to pack it generously.

Step 5: Arrange in the baking dish

Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish in a single layer.

Step 6: Add marinara sauce

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them evenly.

Step 7: Bake covered

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Step 8: Bake uncovered

After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 9: Serve

Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta shells until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven and you don’t want them to become too soft.
• Use Fresh Marinara Sauce: If possible, use homemade or high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. You can easily make your own by simmering tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time by assembling the dish and refrigerating it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Extra Cheese: For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella over the shells before baking uncovered.

How to Serve

Classic Italian stuffed shells can be served as a main dish or alongside a variety of sides. Pair them with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete your meal. For a fun twist, you can also serve them with a side of Italian antipasti, such as olives, marinated artichokes, or prosciutto. If you want to make the dish even more indulgent, top it with fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.

Freezing

Stuffed shells are a great dish to freeze for later. Assemble the shells in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow the dish to thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual. If baking from frozen, you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat frozen stuffed shells, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker option.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or goat cheese for a unique flavor.

2. Can I use gluten-free pasta shells?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta shells if needed. Just be sure to check the package for the correct cooking instructions.

3. How do I prevent the pasta shells from tearing?

Be gentle when stuffing the shells and make sure not to overcook them. If they become too soft, they may tear when handling.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, the recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the filling for added flavor.

5. Can I add meat to the stuffing?

Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey to the cheese mixture for a meatier version of the dish.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle some into the cheese filling for a little heat.

7. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade marinara sauce will add a fresh, homemade touch to the dish. Just be sure to season it to your taste.

8. Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells and freeze them before baking. Just follow the freezing and reheating instructions above.

9. How do I know when the stuffed shells are done?

The stuffed shells are done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top. You can also check by inserting a knife in the center to make sure the filling is hot.

10. Can I make the stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This is a great option for busy days or when you want to save time.

Conclusion

Classic Italian stuffed shells with cheese and marinara are a timeless and comforting dish that everyone will love. The combination of creamy cheeses and flavorful marinara sauce, baked to perfection, makes this recipe a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you make it ahead of time or serve it fresh from the oven, stuffed shells are a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create an unforgettable Italian meal that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen.

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