Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just assemble them in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as an alternative. Just blend it for a smoother texture before mixing with the other ingredients.

Can stuffed shells be frozen?

Absolutely! Assemble the stuffed shells and freeze them before baking. When you're ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

How can I make stuffed shells spicy?

To add some heat, mix crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese filling or top with a spicy marinara sauce. You could also include jalapeños or spicy sausage substitutes.

What should I serve with stuffed shells?

Stuffed shells pair wonderfully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad. Roasted vegetables also make for a great side dish that enhances the meal's nutrition.

Stuffed Shells: Savory, Comforting Delight For Your Dinner

Ingredients

Scale

12 Jumbo Pasta Shells
2 cups Ricotta Cheese
1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
1 Egg
2 cups Marinara Sauce
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
Salt & Pepper to taste
Fresh Basil (for garnishing) to taste

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they’re al dente.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth.
Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture.
Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish, then place the stuffed shells on top.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden.
Let cool slightly and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Freezing before baking is also an option.

Author: James Walker
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 40mg