Baked stuffed shells are the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This classic Italian dish features jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich and creamy ricotta mixture, baked to perfection with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just craving a cozy meal, these baked stuffed shells will surely impress. Follow this detailed guide to make the most delicious baked stuffed shells right at home. Read on to discover step-by-step instructions, substitutions, and tips for making this flavorful dish.

What Are Baked Stuffed Shells?
Baked stuffed shells are a traditional Italian-American recipe featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a blend of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and seasonings. The shells are then placed in a baking dish, smothered with marinara sauce, and topped with extra cheese. The dish is then baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden. It's a simple, comforting meal that's easy to prepare and a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish is a winner.
Ingredients List for Baked Stuffed Shells
To make the perfect baked stuffed shells, you'll need the following ingredients:
- Jumbo pasta shells: These are the star of the dish. Make sure you buy the jumbo size, as regular shells won’t hold the filling well.
- Ricotta cheese: The main ingredient for the filling. It provides a creamy and smooth texture.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives the filling a stretchy, cheesy quality. You’ll also use it on top for that irresistible melted cheese topping.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the filling.
- Egg: Helps bind the cheese mixture together.
- Fresh basil: Adds a bright, herbal note to the filling.
- Garlic: Finely minced garlic enhances the flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To season the filling.
- Marinara sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce to coat the shells and add flavor.
- Olive oil: To lightly grease the baking dish and keep the shells from sticking.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about baked stuffed shells is how versatile they are. You can easily modify the recipe based on dietary needs or personal preferences.
- Cheese substitutes: If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option, substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives. There are many plant-based cheeses available that melt and stretch just like dairy cheese.
- Spinach-stuffed shells: For a healthier twist, add cooked spinach to the ricotta mixture. Simply sauté fresh spinach, squeeze out the excess moisture, and stir it into the cheese filling.
- Meat-filled shells: For a heartier version, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey to the cheese mixture. This is a great option if you want to boost the protein content of the dish.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free pasta shells instead of regular ones. Most grocery stores offer gluten-free pasta options.
- Sauce variations: While marinara sauce is traditional, you can switch things up by using a creamy Alfredo sauce or a pesto sauce for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Before you start cooking, it’s helpful to gather all your ingredients and have them ready. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it's ready when you finish assembling the shells.

Step 1: Boil the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes. This ensures they’ll be slightly undercooked, which is ideal since they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain the shells and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Taste the mixture to ensure it’s seasoned to your liking.
Step 3: Stuff the Shells
Once the pasta shells are cool enough to handle, begin filling each shell with the ricotta mixture. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for easier stuffing. Fill each shell generously, but be careful not to overfill them, as the filling will expand slightly during baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, seam side up, in a single layer.
Step 5: Add the Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is covered in sauce. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like a golden, crispy top, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to undercook the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and fall apart.
- Not seasoning the filling: Ricotta can be quite bland on its own. Be sure to taste and season the cheese mixture well with salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs.
- Too much or too little sauce: Using too much sauce can make the dish watery, while too little can make it dry. A balance of sauce is key to ensuring the shells remain moist and flavorful.
- Skipping the egg: The egg helps bind the cheese mixture, giving it structure. Without it, the filling may become too runny.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can elevate your baked stuffed shells from a simple meal to a beautiful centerpiece. Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shells
Baked stuffed shells are hearty enough to be served as a main dish, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Side salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the baked shells.
- Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing that everyone loves.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus make great side dishes.
- Wine: If you're serving this dish for a special occasion, pair it with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese.
Presentation Ideas for Baked Stuffed Shells
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Cheese garnish: Grate some fresh Parmesan over the dish just before serving for a salty, cheesy finish.
- Individual portions: Serve the stuffed shells in individual ramekins for a more formal presentation, especially for a dinner party.
Baked Stuffed Shells Recipe Tips
- Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Freezing: Baked stuffed shells freeze wonderfully. Prepare the dish as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- Reheating leftovers: Leftover baked stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if you prefer. Cottage cheese has a slightly different texture but works well in this dish. For a creamier texture, you can blend it in a food processor before using it.
Can I add meat to the filling?
Absolutely! You can mix cooked ground beef, sausage, or even shredded chicken into the ricotta filling to add some protein.
How long can I store leftover baked stuffed shells?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply bake in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What type of pasta sauce is best for baked stuffed shells?
Marinara sauce is the traditional choice, but you can also use a creamy Alfredo sauce or a basil pesto if you want to change up the flavor.
Conclusion
Baked stuffed shells are a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With a creamy ricotta filling, a rich marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. By following this guide, you’ll have all the tips and tricks you need to make the perfect batch of baked stuffed shells every time. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try!
PrintBaked Stuffed Shells Recipe
This baked stuffed shells recipe features jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a flavorful blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Baked with marinara sauce and served hot, this easy-to-make dish is ideal for a family meal or a cozy dinner. Enjoy classic Italian comfort food with cheesy baked stuffed shells.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Egg
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil (optional for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Top the shells with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can drizzle olive oil over the shells before baking.
- You can also add spinach or ground meat to the cheese filling for variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4 stuffed shells)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 820mg
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