Stuffed Shells Recipe
A timeless Italian favorite, these baked stuffed shells brim with a medley of three cheeses, finished with a rich marinara sauce and a final layer of melted cheese. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this dish brings warmth and indulgence to the table.
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Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 24 jumbo pasta shells cooked slightly under al dente per package instructions
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 egg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 3 cups marinara sauce divided
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Distribute 1 1/2 cups of marinara sauce evenly across the base of the prepared dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella, Italian seasoning, egg, grated Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Generously fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture and arrange them snugly in the baking dish.
- Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the filled shells, then scatter the remaining 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Slightly undercook the shells by 1–2 minutes prior to stuffing, as they will soften further during baking.
Whole milk versions of ricotta and mozzarella deliver a richer flavor, though part-skim varieties can be used for a lighter dish.
For best results, grate cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking additives that affect melting quality.
Whole milk versions of ricotta and mozzarella deliver a richer flavor, though part-skim varieties can be used for a lighter dish.
For best results, grate cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking additives that affect melting quality.