Easy Stuffed Shells Recipe

If you’re hunting for an absolutely comforting and incredibly delicious meal that’ll brighten any table, you can’t beat Easy Stuffed Shells. This recipe takes tender pasta shells, generously fills them with a cheesy herbed mixture, and bakes everything under a blanket of marinara and melted mozzarella. Each forkful is warmly satisfying, packed with creamy cottage cheese (or ricotta), fresh basil, and a golden, bubbly finish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner or prepping something irresistible for guests, Easy Stuffed Shells will deliver a hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is just how simple these ingredients are—each one pulling real weight to create layers of flavor, creamy texture, and irresistible color. Here’s how each star shines in the dish and why you won’t want to skip a thing!

• Jumbo pasta shells (12 ounces): Their spacious shape is perfect for scooping up creamy filling and holding plenty of sauce.
• Kosher salt (1 tablespoon): Adds essential seasoning right to the pasta water for flavor in every bite.
• Whipped cottage cheese or ricotta cheese (30 ounces): Lends a luscious, creamy texture to the filling—whipped cottage cheese keeps things extra light and protein-packed.
• Parmesan cheese, grated (6 ounces): Brings a nutty, salty punch to the filling, really dialing up the flavor.
• Egg (1): Binds the cheeses and herbs together to help the filling stay creamy but not runny.
• Garlic, minced (1 to 2 cloves): Infuses every bite with fresh, savory flavor—don’t skimp!
• Fresh parsley, minced (1 tablespoon): Adds herby brightness and a pop of green throughout the filling.
• Fresh basil leaves, finely chopped (3/4 cup or about 8 to 10 leaves): Brings sweet, summery depth and incredible aroma—absolutely key for classic stuffed shells.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Pops the flavors in the cheese mixture.
• Fresh ground pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Just a touch gives that essential gentle spice in the filling.
• Marinara sauce (28 ounces): Blankets the shells with tangy tomato warmth, tying everything together from top to bottom.
• Mozzarella cheese, grated (8 ounces): Melts into a gooey, golden, irresistible topping—it’s not stuffed shells without it!

How to Make Easy Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a quick spritz with cooking spray—this prevents sticking and means serving up those beautiful shells is a breeze. Spoon half the marinara sauce right onto the bottom so you’ve got a saucy base for the shells to bake into. Set it aside for a moment while you get the pasta going.

Step 2: Boil and Cool the Shells

Get a large pot of water boiling, then stir in that tablespoon of kosher salt. It should taste a bit like the sea! Add your jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package directions, but stop about 3 minutes before fully done—they’ll finish in the oven. Once drained, rinse them gently with cool water so they stop cooking and stay easy to handle.

Step 3: Mix Up the Cheesy Filling

In a large bowl, combine your whipped cottage cheese (or ricotta), freshly grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything’s light, fluffy, and beautifully herby. This mixture smells absolutely amazing and is the heart of what makes Easy Stuffed Shells so beloved!

Step 4: Fill and Arrange the Shells

Now for the fun part—stuffing! Spoon the cheese-herb mixture into each shell. They should be full but not overflowing. Nestle those beauties right into the sauce-covered baking dish, placing them snugly so they hold together but aren’t squished.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Pour the rest of your marinara sauce over the filled shells, then shower them with a generous layer of grated mozzarella. Cover the pan with foil and bake for about 25 minutes, until everything is hot, bubbly, and golden on top. Serve immediately, and watch these Easy Stuffed Shells disappear in a flash!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Shells

Garnishes

Nothing brightens up a tray of Easy Stuffed Shells like a handful of freshly chopped parsley or torn basil leaves. You can even grate a little extra Parmesan on top for extra flair. The fresh green against the gooey cheese is so inviting!

Side Dishes

Pair your stuffed shells with a crisp Caesar salad or some simple garlicky green beans. A crusty loaf of bread is wonderful for rounding up all that extra marinara sauce. If you’re in the mood, a glass of red wine makes it all extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Easy Stuffed Shells in individual baking crocks for a restaurant-style feel, or arrange them in a circle on a platter with extra sauce in the center for dipping. For a family-style dinner, bring the whole bubbling tray right to the table—it’s a guaranteed conversation starter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover the baking dish tightly or transfer the shells to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days; the flavors will only get better as they meld together!

Freezing

Easy Stuffed Shells are fantastic for freezing. Assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and follow the normal baking instructions.

Reheating

To reheat, place your shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until hot, about 20-25 minutes. If you’re microwaving single servings, sprinkle a bit of water or sauce on top to keep them moist, then heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use ricotta instead of whipped cottage cheese?

Absolutely! Both ricotta and whipped cottage cheese bring a creamy, mild flavor that works perfectly in Easy Stuffed Shells. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand—they’re both delicious.

Is it possible to add meat to the filling?

You bet! For a heartier version, add cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or ground beef to the cheese mixture or layer it under the sauce. It’s a great way to customize the recipe for your family’s tastes.

How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?

After boiling, rinse your pasta shells with cool water to stop the cooking and prevent them from sticking. You can also drizzle them with a touch of olive oil if you’re prepping in advance.

Can I make Easy Stuffed Shells gluten-free?

Definitely! There are several brands of gluten-free jumbo shells available. Just be sure to cook them gently and follow the package instructions carefully, as they can be a little more delicate than regular pasta.

What’s the best way to transport Easy Stuffed Shells for a potluck?

Let your dish cool for about 10-15 minutes after baking so the shells settle, then cover tightly with foil. If possible, reheat at your destination for best flavor and melty cheese goodness—just be ready for recipe requests!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Easy Stuffed Shells enough—this is the kind of meal that brings everyone together and turns any night into a cozy celebration. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, give these a try. You’ll be savoring creamy, baked pasta goodness in no time!

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