Italian Stuffed Shells

Italian Stuffed Shells are a delightful, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the authentic flavors of Italy to your dining table. With creamy ricotta, savory Italian sausage, and gooey mozzarella, all nestled in jumbo pasta shells and smothered in marinara sauce, this recipe is as satisfying as it is beautiful. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting guests, or preparing a cozy dinner for two, these stuffed shells are a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Comforting: Perfect for a hearty dinner that feels indulgent.
2. Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit dietary preferences or add your favorite Italian flavors.
3. Easy to Make Ahead: Perfect for busy schedules or meal prepping.
4. Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this cheesy, saucy dish.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious stuffed shells:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells (20-24): The perfect vessel for holding all the cheesy goodness.
• Ricotta Cheese (15 oz): Creamy and rich, this is the star of the filling.
• Shredded Mozzarella (2 cups): Used in the filling and for a melty topping.
• Grated Parmesan (½ cup): Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the mix.
• Eggs (2): Bind the filling ingredients together for a perfect texture.
• Fresh Parsley (¼ cup, chopped): Adds brightness and color to the dish.

Instructions: How to Make Italian Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a large oven-safe dish by lightly greasing it.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Cook Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Cook until fully browned.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, ricotta, 1½ cups of mozzarella, parmesan, eggs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Heavily salt a large pot of water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook for about 3 minutes, just enough to soften them for stuffing.
3. Drain and rinse the shells with cool water to stop the cooking process.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Pour ¾ of a jar of marinara sauce into your prepared baking dish. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes and garlic powder for an extra kick. Mix well.
2. Fill each cooked pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the filling and place it in the marinara sauce, open side up.
3. Repeat until all shells are stuffed and arranged snugly in the dish.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

1. Pour the remaining ¼ jar of marinara sauce over the shells.
2. Sprinkle the shells with the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy topping.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the stuffed shells in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Step 7: Serve

Allow the dish to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells

1. Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cooking the shells slightly less than al dente prevents them from tearing during stuffing.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and high-quality cheeses elevate the flavor of this dish.
3. Customize the Filling: Add spinach, mushrooms, or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed shells up to a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling.
2. Seafood Twist: Replace the sausage with cooked shrimp or crab meat for a coastal-inspired dish.
3. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells or zucchini boats as an alternative.
4. Cheese Lovers: Add a layer of béchamel sauce under the marinara for an extra creamy result.

What to Serve with Italian Stuffed Shells

1. Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment for soaking up the marinara sauce.
2. Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
3. Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the robust flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

1. Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Freezer: Freeze assembled (but unbaked) stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
3. Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Why Italian Stuffed Shells Are a Must-Try

This recipe brings together the best of Italian comfort food in one dish. It’s creamy, cheesy, savory, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or looking for a satisfying family meal, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to impress.

Conclusion

Italian Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort dish that brings family and friends together. With a simple preparation process and endless customization options, this recipe is a timeless favorite you’ll turn to again and again.

Buon appetito!