Cheesy Stuffed Shells Recipe – Easy, Creamy, and Perfect for Dinner

Introduction

A creamy, cheesy stuffed shells casserole always feels like a hug on a plate. Imagine pasta shells filled with a smooth blend of ricotta and mozzarella, bathed in a fragrant tomato sauce and baked until golden and bubbling. That comforting smell drifting through your kitchen makes everyone pause what they are doing and follow the scent. When served fresh from the oven, each bite offers a balance of al dente pasta, rich cheese filling, and tangy tomato flavors.

Many home cooks treasure this recipe because it brings joy without requiring overly complex techniques. The key lies in choosing quality ingredients and giving each component the attention it deserves. The ideal cheesy stuffed shells should feel indulgent but well balanced. In this article an expert approach will guide you through each step. The instruction style aims to feel like guidance from someone who has cooked this dish many times and loves sharing the results. You will also find ideas for variation, nutrition data, serving tips, and answers to common questions.

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Ingredients Needed

Below is a table listing the basic ingredients for your cheesy stuffed shells along with approximate calorie counts for each item. The totals refer to the full recipe before dividing into portions.

Ingredient	Amount	Approximate Calories*
Jumbo pasta shells	20 shells (about 8 oz)	720
Ricotta cheese (whole milk)	1 cup	430
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)	1½ cups	420
Parmesan cheese (grated)	½ cup	215
Egg (large)	1	70
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tablespoons	4
Garlic cloves (minced)	2	10
Olive oil	1 tablespoon	120
Salt	to taste	0
Black pepper	to taste	0
Tomato sauce (marinara style)	2 cups	160
Water or reserved pasta water	¼ cup	0

* Calorie counts are approximate and based on standard values from nutrition databases. Final per serving calories will vary depending on portion size and specific brands.

Total for full recipe before servings is about 2,149 calories (rounded). If you divide into 6 servings, each will be about 358 calories plus any side additions.

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Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking the perfect cheesy stuffed shells involves three phases: preparing the pasta, making the filling, and baking. Follow these steps carefully to achieve a creamy center and beautiful top.

Step 1 Preheat oven and prepare baking dish

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (about 190 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with olive oil or a nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and allows easy serving.Pair this meal with Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells_ for a complete experience.

Step 2 Cook pasta shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them until they are al dente—firm to bite but not raw in center. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Use a colander or slotted spoon to remove the shells, then rinse briefly with cool water to stop further cooking. Set them aside on a tray so they do not stick together.

Step 3 Prepare cheese filling

While the pasta boils, in a medium bowl combine ricotta, about one cup of the shredded mozzarella (reserve the rest for topping), grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is cohesive and creamy. Taste a small bit of the filling and adjust salt or pepper as needed.

Step 4 Spoon filling into shells

Take each cooled shell and gently stuff it with a spoonful of the cheese mixture. Do not overfill or break the shell. Place the stuffed shell into the prepared baking dish seam side up, arranging them in a single layer. You may fit about 4 shells across and 5 down for a total of 20; if more shells are made, layer carefully or use a second dish.

Step 5 Add sauce and extra moisture

Once all shells are stuffed and placed, pour the tomato sauce evenly over them. If the sauce is thick, add the reserved water or a bit of pasta water to thin it slightly—this helps the shell edges remain moist and prevents dryness when baking.

Step 6 Top with remaining cheese

Sprinkle the remainder of the shredded mozzarella over the shells for a golden cheesy crust. If you like, add a little extra Parmesan on top for color and flavor.

Step 7 Bake baking dish

Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil (or use a lid if your dish has one). Bake for about 20 minutes covered, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts and browns slightly and the sauce bubbles gently.

Step 8 Let rest and serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the cheese settle and makes serving cleaner. Use a spatula to transfer stuffed shells to plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Customization is one of the joys of making cheesy stuffed shells. Here are ideas to adapt flavors, textures, or make it fit special dietary needs:

• Use part spinach in the filling: Chop fresh or thawed frozen spinach, squeeze out excess moisture, and fold about ½ cup into the cheese mix.
• Add Italian sausage: Brown about ½ cup of cooked sausage and mix it into the stuffing for meaty richness.
• Use cottage cheese: Replace part of the ricotta with low fat cottage cheese for a lighter texture.
• Try flavored sauces: Use roasted garlic tomato sauce, basil pesto mixed with marinara, or a creamy tomato vodka sauce.
• Use gluten free pasta shells: Many stores carry gluten free jumbo shells; check cooking times since they may differ.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeno to the filling or sauce for some heat.
• Layer version: Instead of stuffing shells, break cooked pasta and layer with cheese and sauce to create a baked pasta casserole.
• Dairy free or vegan option: Use plant based ricotta and mozzarella substitutes and omit the egg (or use a flax egg) for a dairy free version.
• Herbs and seasoning tweaks: Try basil, oregano, thyme, nutmeg, or even a little lemon zest in the cheese filling for bright notes.

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Nutritional Information

Below is an approximate breakdown per serving, assuming the recipe yields six servings and does not include side dishes. Nutrients can vary depending on brands and substitutions.

Nutrient	Approximate Amount per Serving
Calories	~ 358 kcal
Protein	~ 18 grams
Carbohydrates	~ 28 grams
Dietary Fiber	~ 2 grams
Total Fat	~ 19 grams
Saturated Fat	~ 9 grams
Cholesterol	~ 80 mg
Sodium	~ 520 mg
Calcium	~ 280 mg
Iron	~ 1.2 mg
Vitamin A	~ 400 IU

Keep in mind that sides like garlic bread or salad dressings will add more calories, fat, and sodium. If you use low fat cheese or reduce added salt, those numbers will shift accordingly.

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Serving Suggestions

Cheesy stuffed shells make a satisfying main course on their own, but pairing them smartly can elevate the meal experience. Here are complementary serving ideas:

• Green side salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and balance.
• Roasted or steamed vegetables: Zucchini, broccoli, asparagus or green beans offer color and nutrients.
• Garlic bread or herb bread: A warm loaf brushed with garlic olive oil (or butter) is perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
• Wine or beverage pairing: A medium bodied red wine like a Sangiovese or Chianti works well. For non alcoholic, sparkling water with lemon or iced tea can complement.
• Garnishes: Fresh basil or parsley adds aroma and visual appeal. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can provide finishing touches.
• Side of soup: A light tomato basil soup or minestrone pairs well if you want a starter.
• Dessert suggestion: Something light like fresh fruit sorbet or a citrus salad helps cleanse the palette after a rich dish.

Serve the stuffed shells while warm. Use shallow bowls or plates that allow some sauce beneath. Encourage guests to scoop a bit of sauce with each bite of shell.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the stuffed shells, cover the dish tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bring it closer to room temperature, then bake. You may need to add 5 to 10 minutes extra oven time.

How do I store leftovers?
Cool the dish somewhat, then cover and refrigerate. Leftovers stay good for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in an oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes. After baking, let the dish cool completely. Cover it well (foil and plastic wrap) and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in refrigerator, then warm in oven at 350 F for around 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through.

What if my shells break while stuffing?
Choose a firm but not overcooked shell in boiling. If some break, use them as broken pieces: layer them bottom up with filling into the sauce instead of trying to stuff.

Can I skip the egg in the filling?
Yes, especially if you use thick cheeses or plant based substitutes. The egg helps bind, but if your mixture is thick enough, the shells will hold shape. You may just need gentler handling.

How can I reduce calories without losing taste?
Try using part skim ricotta, reduced fat mozzarella, or cutting back on the amount of top cheese. Increase herbs and garlic for flavor. Use a thinner sauce or tomato sauce without added sugars or oils.

What size pasta shells should I use?
Jumbo shells are ideal—they are large enough to hold a generous filling. Standard shells will be too small. If using alternate shapes, adjust filling amounts per shape.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use two baking dishes or one very large dish. Adjust cooking time if the dish is very deep or densely filled—but monitor so shells do not dry out.

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Conclusion

Cooking cheesy stuffed shells offers both comfort and satisfaction. Each bite brings a creamy interior, melting cheese, and tangy tomato sauce that stays harmonious. With good ingredients, care during preparation, and a bit of customization to reflect your tastes, you can make a dish that feels special yet approachable. Whether served for family dinners, potlucks, or casual entertaining, this recipe can adapt. Keep in mind that the resting time after baking matters as much as the oven time.