Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe

Stuffed shells are a comforting, delicious dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. This classic Italian-inspired recipe features jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a rich, cheesy filling, covered in savory marinara sauce, and baked to perfection. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this baked stuffed shells recipe is simple to follow and guaranteed to impress. Read on to learn how to make this delectable dish and impress your friends and family!

What Are Baked Stuffed Shells?

Baked stuffed shells are large pasta shells that are filled with a creamy mixture, typically made from ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and sometimes meat or spinach. The stuffed shells are placed in a baking dish, topped with marinara sauce, and baked until golden and bubbly. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any pasta lover.

Ingredients List for Baked Stuffed Shells

To make the best baked stuffed shells, you’ll need a combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here's what you'll need for the basic cheese-filled version:

• 20-25 jumbo pasta shells
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)

Ingredients List for Baked Stuffed Shells with Spinach

If you'd like to add a healthy twist, try incorporating spinach into your stuffed shells for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. Here’s the ingredient list with spinach:

• 20-25 jumbo pasta shells
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained, or 2 cups fresh spinach, wilted and chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing the pan

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about baked stuffed shells is how versatile they are. You can make this dish vegetarian, add meat, or even experiment with different types of cheeses or sauces. Here are a few substitutions and variations you might want to try:

1. Meat Option: Add browned ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded chicken to the ricotta mixture for a heartier dish.
2. Different Cheeses: Swap out the mozzarella and Parmesan for different cheeses, such as Fontina, provolone, or Gouda for a unique flavor twist.
3. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
4. Sauce Variations: While marinara sauce is classic, you could use Alfredo sauce or a creamy pesto sauce for a richer taste.
5. Vegetable Variations: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the filling for extra veggies and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to start cooking? Let’s go through the steps to make these irresistible baked stuffed shells.

1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until just al dente, usually 9-10 minutes. You want them to be slightly firm so they hold their shape during baking. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese filling. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. If you’re using spinach or any other added vegetables or meats, fold them into the mixture now.
3. Stuff the Shells: Once the pasta shells are cool enough to handle, stuff each shell generously with the cheese mixture. A small spoon or your hands work well for this task.
4. Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil, then spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce.
5. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the stuffed shells. Sprinkle an extra ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the sauce for that irresistible bubbly, cheesy finish.
6. Bake: Cover the 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 melted and golden brown.
7. Rest Before Serving: Let the baked stuffed shells rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

How to Cook Baked Stuffed Shells: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the jumbo shells until they are al dente. Drain and rinse.
3. Prepare the Filling: Combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, herbs, and seasoning.
4. Stuff the Shells: Fill each shell with a heaping spoonful of the cheese mixture.
5. Assemble: Spread marinara sauce in a greased baking dish and arrange the shells on top.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese: Top with more marinara sauce and sprinkle mozzarella on top.
7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
8. Serve: Let cool for a few minutes, then serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: If the shells are overcooked, they’ll fall apart when you try to stuff them. Make sure to cook them just until al dente.
• Using Watery Ricotta: If your ricotta is too watery, the filling may become too runny. Drain excess moisture from the ricotta by letting it sit in a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth before mixing it with other ingredients.
• Not Covering with Foil: If you don’t cover the dish during the first part of baking, the shells might dry out. The foil traps steam, keeping the dish moist.
• Underseasoning: Make sure to taste the filling before stuffing the shells to ensure it’s properly seasoned with enough salt and pepper.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving baked stuffed shells, presentation can make all the difference. This hearty dish can be elevated with a few thoughtful touches:

1. Garnish: Top the baked shells with freshly chopped basil or parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Cheese Finish: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes on top for added flavor.
3. Serve Family-Style: Bring the baking dish straight to the table for a casual, family-style meal. Serve with a large salad and warm garlic bread to complete the meal.

How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shells

Baked stuffed shells are best served warm right out of the oven. Here are a few serving ideas:

• With Garlic Bread: The classic pairing of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce.
• With Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the cheese-stuffed shells.
• With Wine: Pair with a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Presentation Ideas for Baked Stuffed Shells

• Individual Portions: Serve the shells in individual gratin dishes for a more elegant presentation at a dinner party.
• Baking Dish-to-Table: For a casual, family-friendly setting, place the entire baking dish in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves.
• Rustic Style: Serve with large wooden spoons and rustic bowls for a cozy, farmhouse-inspired meal.

Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freezing: Baked stuffed shells freeze well! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta? A: Yes, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta in baked stuffed shells, though the texture may be slightly different.

Q: How long do leftovers last? A: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Q: Can I freeze baked stuffed shells? A: Absolutely! You can freeze both cooked and uncooked stuffed shells. Just be sure to wrap the dish tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Q: Can I add meat to the filling? A: Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or even shredded chicken to the cheese mixture for a meaty variation.

Conclusion

Baked stuffed shells are a comforting, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick with the classic cheese filling or experiment with meats, vegetables, or different sauces, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out for your next dinner and enjoy the hearty flavors of this Italian-inspired recipe!

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