Easy Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! These Easy Stuffed Shells are a delightful twist on classic Italian flavors, making them a favorite in my home. They’re not just tasty; they’re also incredibly simple to whip up, even on the busiest weeknights. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these stuffed shells are sure to impress!

What makes this dish extra special is the creamy filling combined with fresh herbs tucked inside tender pasta shells. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Plus, they’re great for meal prep—just pop them in the oven and let the magic happen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into these cheesy, flavorful shells.
• Perfect for leftovers: These stuffed shells taste even better the next day, making them ideal for meal prep.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the filling or sauce to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Comfort food at its best: With gooey cheese and rich marinara, this dish is pure comfort in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need for these Easy Stuffed Shells:

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt

For the Filling

• 30 ounces whipped cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese)
• 6 ounces Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 egg
• 1 to 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (minced)
• ¾ cup fresh basil leaves (finely chopped, about 8 to 10 leaves)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper

For Topping

• 28 ounces marinara sauce
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (grated)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add some veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Swap the cheese: Try using goat cheese or feta instead of cottage cheese for a tangy twist.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
• Make it meatier: Mix in cooked ground turkey or chicken for added protein.

How to Make Easy Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your stuffed shells will bake evenly and come out hot and bubbly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. Spread half of your marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish. This layer not only prevents sticking but also adds flavor as it bakes.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your jumbo pasta shells and cook them until they’re about three minutes shy of al dente, according to package directions. This helps them hold their shape when filled later.

Step 4: Drain and Rinse

Once cooked, drain your pasta shells and give them a rinse with cool water. This stops the cooking process and makes them easier to handle when you’re ready to fill them.

Step 5: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine whipped cottage cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is blended together nicely. The filling should be creamy and fragrant!

Step 6: Fill the Shells

Spoon your cheesy mixture into each shell carefully. Place them snugly in your prepared baking dish over that lovely marinara sauce.

Step 7: Top It Off

Cover those beautiful stuffed shells with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle grated mozzarella on top. This will create a deliciously gooey crust as it bakes!

Step 8: Bake

Pop your dish into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until everything is hot and bubbly. The smell while it’s baking will be incredible—trust me!

Now you’re ready to serve these Easy Stuffed Shells! Enjoy every cheesy bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Stuffed Shells

Making Easy Stuffed Shells is a breeze, but a few pro tips can take your dish from good to great!

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the shells to just under al dente ensures they won’t become mushy when baked. This helps maintain their shape and texture after baking.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh basil and parsley enhances the flavor profile of your filling. Fresh herbs bring an aromatic quality that dried herbs simply can’t match.
• Experiment with Cheese: While the recipe calls for cottage cheese and Parmesan, feel free to mix in other cheeses like ricotta or even a dash of feta for added depth. This allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Layering Sauce is Key: Spreading marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish prevents sticking and adds moisture during cooking. It helps create a delicious base layer that complements the stuffed shells beautifully.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the stuffed shells to rest for a few minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together. This wait time makes serving easier and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Shells

Presenting your Easy Stuffed Shells beautifully can make your dinner feel extra special! Here are some delightful ideas on how to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A handful of fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top adds color and a burst of flavor.
• Grated Parmesan: A light dusting of grated Parmesan offers a lovely finishing touch that enhances the cheese’s richness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate your dish with added spice.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce, adding a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft stuffed shells.
• Mixed Green Salad: A salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds both vibrant color and nutrition to your meal. Drizzle it with olive oil and lemon juice for an extra zing!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots complement stuffed shells wonderfully while adding depth and variety to your plate.

With these simple tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this delightful meal. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Stuffed Shells are not only a delightful dish but also a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer, making weeknight dinners incredibly simple.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the stuffed shells as directed but do not bake them.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• To reheat refrigerated stuffed shells, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil.
• For frozen shells, bake directly from the freezer at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes, removing the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Easy Stuffed Shells that might help you out!

Can I make these Easy Stuffed Shells without cheese?

Yes! You can substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative or use mashed beans and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How do I customize my Easy Stuffed Shells?

Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into your stuffing mixture for extra nutrition and flavor!

Can I prepare Easy Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the shells beforehand and store them in the fridge or freeze them for later — perfect for meal prep!

What’s the best way to serve Easy Stuffed Shells?

Serve these delicious stuffed shells with a fresh side salad and some crusty bread for an incredible meal that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Easy Stuffed Shells as much as I do! They’re not just easy to whip up but also packed with flavor and comfort. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or even when you have guests over — it’s sure to impress! So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite. Happy cooking!