Name: Stuffed Jumbo Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 box jumbo pasta shells; 24-28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce (or homemade); 15 oz ricotta cheese; 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 3 cloves garlic, pressed

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Alright, my friend, get ready for a flavor explosion in the form of stuffed jumbo shells! These pasta beauties are not just big in size—they’re packed with layers of cheesy goodness and bursting with savory flavors. Picture this: perfectly cooked pasta shells, cradling a creamy ricotta filling, all nestled in a rich marinara sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, and trust me, you’re going to fall head over heels for these. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner at home or impressing your friends at a gathering, these stuffed shells are a showstopper. You can almost smell the aroma of the sauce bubbling up and the cheese melting into a perfect bite. It’s time to roll up your sleeves, get that oven preheating, and let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Jumbo Shells

This recipe is all about creating those unforgettable, cozy moments that make you feel right at home. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or treating yourself to a weeknight indulgence, these stuffed shells are everything you’ve been craving. Here’s why I know you’re going to love them:

Versatile: Perfect for any occasion! From a weeknight dinner to a fun family gathering, these stuffed shells always steal the show. Plus, they’re a great way to prep ahead for those busy days when you need a meal ready to go.
Budget-Friendly: This dish uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. You won’t have to splurge on anything fancy, but the result? Pure comfort and satisfaction.
Quick and Easy: Even if you’re not the most experienced cook, this dish is a total breeze. With just a few steps, you can have a hearty, filling meal ready to enjoy in no time.
Customizable: Want to spice it up? Add some red pepper flakes for a little kick. Prefer it milder? No problem—keep it classic with the creamy cheese and savory marinara.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone, young and old, will be asking for seconds. There’s something about the cheesy filling and savory sauce that just makes people smile.

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Ingredients

Here’s the magic behind these stuffed shells—it’s all about balance. A little pasta, a lot of cheese, and a rich marinara sauce come together to make something truly special.

Jumbo Pasta Shells: The star of the show! These big shells hold all the cheesy goodness inside.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy, mild, and perfect for stuffing into those shells.
Mozzarella Cheese: Adds that melt-in-your-mouth stretchiness we all love.
Parmesan Cheese: For a sharp, salty punch that brings everything together.
Spinach: A little green to add some freshness and balance the richness of the cheese.
Egg: To help bind everything together and give the filling that perfect texture.
Marinara Sauce: The comforting, tangy base that ties the whole dish together.
Garlic and Herbs: To add that fragrant kick of flavor that takes this dish to the next level. (Note: The full list of ingredients, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps and get ready for the most delicious stuffed shells ever.

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that everything cooks evenly and gets nice and bubbly.

Prepare the Pasta Shells

Boil the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until al dente. Be careful not to overcook them, as they’ll bake further in the oven. Drain and set them aside to cool a little so you can stuff them easily.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, chopped spinach, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it all together until the filling is smooth and well-mixed. The mixture should be creamy and thick—perfect for stuffing those shells!

Stuff the Shells

Spoon the cheese mixture into each pasta shell. Be generous—those shells should be packed with cheesy goodness! Place each stuffed shell in a baking dish, nestled in a bit of marinara sauce.

Pour the Marinara Sauce

Once all the shells are in place, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Spread it evenly so every shell is covered. Top it off with a sprinkle of extra mozzarella cheese for that golden, melty finish.

Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. You want it to be hot and golden brown on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Take it out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes (trust me, it’s hard, but totally worth it!), then dig in! Whether it’s paired with a fresh salad or served as a standalone dish, these stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort food.

How to Serve Stuffed Jumbo Shells

These stuffed shells are hearty enough to stand alone, but here are some great ways to round out your meal:

Garlic Bread: Always a winner! Serve some warm, crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up that delicious marinara sauce.
Crisp Salad: A fresh, tangy salad with a light vinaigrette adds the perfect contrast to the rich flavors of the stuffed shells.
Roasted Veggies: Carrots, zucchini, or a medley of roasted vegetables would be a beautiful, nutrient-packed side to this cheesy dish.
Creamy Accompaniments: A dollop of sour cream or even a drizzle of olive oil can add a creamy finish that pairs perfectly with the pasta.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: These stuffed shells are great for prepping ahead of time! Assemble the dish, then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it from the fridge.
Freezing: Leftovers freeze beautifully! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven to reheat.
Spice it Up: If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a layer of spicy sausage to the filling for an extra kick.
Dairy-Free Option: You can swap the cheeses for dairy-free versions to make it vegan or lactose-free without sacrificing that cheesy goodness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! If you can’t find jumbo shells, feel free to use manicotti or another large pasta shape. Just make sure it can hold the filling.

Q2: Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can assemble them the day before and bake them when you’re ready. Just make sure to let them cool before covering them and refrigerating.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the texture nice and creamy.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! These stuffed shells freeze really well. Just wrap them tightly and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Q5: What should I serve with these stuffed shells?
A5: Garlic bread, a fresh salad, and roasted vegetables are all great choices to pair with this comforting dish.

Conclusion

Stuffed Jumbo Shells are a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, comforting meals. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. The cheesy filling, tangy sauce, and rich flavors are everything you need for a cozy night in. So grab those shells, get cooking, and enjoy every single bite—you deserve it!