There's nothing quite like a bubbling dish of Stuffed Shells fresh out of the oven. With each bite, you get a perfect combination of creamy ricotta filling, tangy marinara sauce, and tender pasta, all baked under a blanket of melted cheese.

I remember the first time I made stuffed shells for my family. It was a cozy Sunday afternoon, and the aroma of garlic and herbs filled the kitchen. From that moment on, this dish became a staple in our household—ideal for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

Why You'll Love This Stuffed Shells Recipe

Get ready to add this Stuffed Shells recipe to your list of go-to comfort foods. It's a meal that checks all the boxes—delicious, easy, and family-friendly.

First off, it's a make-ahead dream. You can assemble everything in advance and pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

It's also budget-friendly. This recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients, like ricotta cheese and pasta, to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Even picky eaters will love this one! The creamy, cheesy filling paired with marinara sauce is always a crowd-pleaser.

Plus, it's incredibly versatile. Whether you want to add spinach, swap in different cheeses, or include ground meat, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Stuffed Shells lies in the balance of a few simple ingredients. Let’s go over what makes this dish so delicious.

Jumbo pasta shells are the foundation of this dish. Be sure to cook them just until al dente, as they'll continue to soften while baking.

Ricotta cheese is the star of the filling. It creates that signature creamy texture. For added richness, mix in some mozzarella and Parmesan—they bring extra gooeyness and a nutty depth of flavor.

A good marinara sauce ties everything together. Use your favorite store-bought brand for convenience or make a homemade version if you have the time.

Eggs help bind the cheese mixture, ensuring it stays creamy without becoming too runny as it bakes.

If you love a hint of extra seasoning, a blend of Italian herbs, garlic, and black pepper adds the perfect finishing touch.

How To Make This Stuffed Shells Recipe

Making Stuffed Shells is easier than you think! Here’s how to do it step by step.

Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells in salted water until just al dente. Drain them and lay them out on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together.

While the pasta cools, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, eggs, minced garlic, and Italian herbs until everything is well combined.

Next, preheat your oven to 375°F and spread a generous layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.

Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in the dish, seam-side up. Once all the shells are stuffed, spoon more marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with extra mozzarella.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! Stuffed Shells store beautifully.

To refrigerate, place them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.

For freezing, assemble the shells but don’t bake them. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45 minutes, or until fully heated.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ways to change it up:

Want to add some greens? Mix chopped spinach into the ricotta filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

For a meatier version, add crumbled cooked sausage or ground beef to the sauce before layering it in the dish.

Love extra cheese? Swap ricotta for cottage cheese or use pecorino romano for a sharper bite.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try vegan ricotta and dairy-free mozzarella—it still turns out creamy and delicious!

No matter how you make it, this Stuffed Shells recipe is guaranteed to be a comforting, satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.