Stuffed Jumbo Shells

There’s something so satisfying about digging into a plate of Stuffed Jumbo Shells. They’re the ultimate comfort food—tender pasta shells filled with a creamy, cheesy filling, all smothered in marinara sauce and baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or preparing a special dish for guests, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

The beauty of stuffed shells lies in their versatility. You can pack them with a mixture of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, or go the extra mile by adding spinach, herbs, or ground meat for more flavor and texture. The cheesy filling is always the star, and it perfectly complements the savory tomato sauce.

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Comforting and Hearty

Stuffed jumbo shells are the perfect meal when you’re craving something rich and filling. The combination of pasta, cheese, and tomato sauce will warm you right up, making it the ideal dish for cozy nights.

Easy to Make

This recipe is straightforward, and while it might seem like a bit of a project, it’s incredibly easy to put together. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, saving you time and stress on the day you serve it.

Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will devour this dish. The cheesy filling inside each shell is like a bite of comfort, and the sauce just ties everything together beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly

One of the best things about this dish is that it can be prepped in advance. You can assemble the shells, cover them, and pop them in the fridge for later, or even freeze them for a busy day when you need a delicious meal ready to go.

Versatile

While the classic stuffed shells recipe is already perfect, you can easily customize it to fit your preferences. Add in some sautéed mushrooms, swap marinara for Alfredo sauce, or mix in some cooked sausage or ground beef if you’re craving a meatier version.

Ingredients

For the Shells:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large pasta shells are the perfect vessel for holding all that cheesy goodness. They’re hearty and can hold a lot of filling!

For the Filling:

• Ricotta Cheese: The creamy, mild base of the filling. Ricotta makes the filling smooth and soft.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds that melty, gooey goodness that you know and love.
• Parmesan Cheese: For a touch of sharpness and umami flavor.
• Egg: Helps bind the filling together and gives it a rich texture.
• Spinach: Optional but highly recommended for some added color and nutrition. You can use fresh spinach, or frozen spinach works just as well—just make sure to squeeze out the excess water!
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: For an extra boost of flavor in the filling.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning.

For the Sauce:

• Marinara Sauce: A classic tomato-based sauce that’s tangy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with the cheesy filling. You can use store-bought or homemade!
• Parmesan Cheese: Extra grated Parmesan for topping the shells before baking for an added cheesy crust.

(Note: Exact measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Shells

Start by cooking the jumbo shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Be sure not to overcook them, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly. This step helps avoid any tearing when you stuff them.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the shells are cooking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Add the egg, spinach (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until it’s well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Once the shells are cool enough to handle, carefully stuff each one with the cheese mixture. Be generous—each shell should be filled with a nice amount of cheesy goodness!

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Once all the shells are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, making sure each shell is well-coated. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top for that golden, cheesy finish.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is slightly golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you’d like, and serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad.

How to Serve Stuffed Jumbo Shells

With Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with a side of garlic bread! It’s perfect for dipping into the marinara sauce and scooping up all that cheesy goodness.

With a Green Salad

Pair the stuffed shells with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The crunch and freshness of the salad balance out the richness of the pasta.

With Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli add a nice contrast to the dish and round out the meal.

With a Side of Parmesan

Grate extra Parmesan on top of the stuffed shells just before serving for that extra cheesy touch!

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead of Time

You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. You can even freeze the shells for up to 3 months—just be sure to bake them from frozen and add a little extra time in the oven.

Use Homemade Marinara Sauce

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own marinara sauce. It’s easier than you think, and homemade sauce brings a rich, fresh flavor to the dish.

Add Meat to the Filling

For a heartier version, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey to the cheese filling. Just sauté the meat and mix it in with the cheese mixture before stuffing the shells.

Try Different Cheeses

While ricotta and mozzarella are classic, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar for a unique twist.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for 1 serving (based on an 8-serving batch):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 19g
• Sodium: 560mg

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular pasta shells instead of jumbo shells?

A1: Jumbo shells are the best option for this recipe, as they hold more filling. However, you can use any pasta shape you prefer—just make sure to adjust the cooking time for smaller shells.

Q2: Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

A2: Yes! You can assemble them the day before and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great option for meal prep or when you’re having guests over.

Q3: Can I freeze stuffed shells?

A3: Absolutely! Assemble the shells and cover them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, cook from frozen and add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Q4: Can I add ground meat to the filling?

A4: Yes! You can sauté ground beef, sausage, or turkey and mix it into the cheese filling for a meaty version. It’ll add even more flavor and protein.

Q5: Can I use a different cheese in the filling?

A5: Yes, feel free to use different cheeses! Ricotta is traditional, but you can swap it out for mascarpone, cream cheese, or goat cheese for a different texture and flavor.

Q6: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

A6: Yes, store-bought marinara sauce is perfect for this recipe. But if you want to make it extra special, homemade marinara is always a great option!

Q7: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A7: Absolutely! The traditional recipe is already vegetarian, but feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or peppers for added flavor and texture.

Q8: How do I store leftover stuffed shells?

A8: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave until hot.

Q9: Can I add spinach to the filling?

A9: Yes, spinach adds a nice touch to the filling! You can use either fresh or frozen spinach. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid from the frozen spinach before mixing it in.

Q10: What side dishes go well with stuffed shells?

A10: Garlic bread, a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of sautéed greens are all excellent options that pair well with stuffed shells.

Conclusion

Stuffed Jumbo Shells are the perfect comfort food—cheesy, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. With their easy prep and ability to be made ahead of time, they’re the ultimate meal for busy nights or when you want to impress your guests. Whether you keep it classic with just cheese or add your own twist with meats and veggies, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy!

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