Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Creamy Filling: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a deliciously cheesy bite.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and bake when ready.
- Customizable: Add spinach, mushrooms, or different meats for variety.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy authentic Italian flavors without leaving your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Shells:
- 20-24 jumbo pasta shells
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Filling:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Prepare the Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces. Once fully cooked, drain excess grease.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked sausage with ricotta, 1 ½ cups mozzarella, parmesan, eggs, parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add jumbo pasta shells and cook for about 3 minutes, just until softened. Drain and let cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread ¾ of the marinara sauce in an oven-safe dish. Mix in red pepper flakes and garlic powder.
- Fill each shell generously with the ricotta mixture and place them in the marinara sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella.
4. Bake the Shells
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the cheese brown slightly.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and add sautéed spinach or mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
- Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of fresh mozzarella slices before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta shells.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
What’s the best type of cheese for stuffed shells?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan create the best combination of creaminess and flavor.
Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?
Yes, ground beef or turkey can be used, but Italian sausage adds extra flavor.
Do I need to cook the shells fully before stuffing?
No, slightly undercooking them (about 3 minutes) makes them easier to stuff and prevents them from becoming mushy.
What can I serve with stuffed shells?
A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions.
How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?
Toss them with a little olive oil after draining.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella substitutes for a lactose-free option.
How do I get a crispy cheese topping?
Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking for a golden, bubbly top.
Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade marinara adds an extra level of freshness.
Conclusion
Italian Stuffed Shells are a comforting, cheesy, and flavor-packed meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a meal-prep option, this dish is sure to impress. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a restaurant-worthy meal at home!
