Stuffed Shells with Cheese

Name: Stuffed Shells with Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

When I think of comfort food, something instantly springs to mind: stuffed shells with gooey cheese! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it was a family favorite during cozy dinners at home. The excitement of filling each shell with creamy ricotta and mozzarella takes me back to my childhood. Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make, which makes it perfect for both weeknights and gatherings. Join me in exploring how to create these irresistible shells that truly warm the soul.

Created by

Flora Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:21:36.717Z

Growing up, I often helped my mom in the kitchen, and stuffing pasta shells was always my favorite part. There's something so satisfying about filling those delicate shells with creamy cheese and watching them bake into a golden delight. It’s a simple method that yields impressive results, showcasing the beauty of fresh ingredients and layer upon layer of melted cheese.

I've learned that while making the sauce sounds daunting, it’s just a matter of blending key ingredients until they come together in harmony. Adding a pinch of fresh herbs elevates the flavor and makes the entire dish sing with freshness. This has become my go-to for dinner parties and family gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Dish
        Creamy ricotta and mozzarella for that perfect gooey texture
Rich tomato sauce infused with fresh herbs
Great for serving at gatherings or for a comforting family meal

      

Ingredients

Stuffed Shells Ingredients

12 large pasta shells
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Spoon the cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell. Place the filled shells in a baking dish.

Add Sauce

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are fully covered.

Bake

Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, if desired. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding spinach or cooked ground meat to the cheese filling, or experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the shells in advance?

Absolutely! You can fill the shells and assemble them in the baking dish a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

→ What type of sauce works best?

Marinara sauce is traditional, but feel free to use Alfredo or any favorite pasta sauce to suit your taste.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to wrap the dish securely and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with stuffed shells?

These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.