There’s something so comforting about a dish that brings family and warmth to the table. These baked stuffed shells are filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, kissed by garlic and fresh parsley, then baked to golden perfection. Each bite is a tender pasta shell wrapped around rich cheese, topped with melted, slightly browned cheese, and a generous spoonful of vibrant marinara sauce.
I still remember the first time I made this recipe—it was a chilly evening, and the smell of garlic and baking cheese filled the kitchen. As we gathered around the table, the rustic Italian flavors instantly transported us to a cozy trattoria. It’s a dish that invites comfort and connection.
Why You’ll Love It:
– Creamy cheese filling with tender pasta and a golden, melted cheese topping
– Rustic Italian home-cooked style that’s simple yet impressive
– Balanced flavors of fresh parsley and garlic enhance the rich cheeses
– Marinated shells baked together for an easy, all-in-one meal
Ready in about an hour from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. It’s fuss-free but feels special—a true comfort food winner.
PrintStuffed Shells
Baked jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta cheese blend, topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan, all baked in marinara sauce and garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6
Ingredients
Jumbo pasta shells
Ricotta cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Egg
Fresh parsley
Garlic
Salt
Black pepper
Marinara sauce
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
Fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the dish.
Spoon marinara sauce evenly over the shells.
Sprinkle additional mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with extra chopped parsley and serve on a round white ceramic plate.
Q: How easy is this dish for beginner cooks?
A: This recipe uses straightforward steps like filling pasta shells and baking, making it accessible for any home cook craving a cozy meal.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Yes! Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the cheese creamy and sauce vibrant.
Save this recipe for your next cozy dinner or print it out to keep it handy. These stuffed shells are waiting to become your new comfort classic.