This stuffed shells recipe is a comforting classic, featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, topped with rich marinara sauce and melty mozzarella. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this easy baked pasta dish delivers authentic Italian flavors in every bite.
20–25 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 egg
2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, mix ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Spread 1 cup marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture and place it in the dish.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
You can add cooked ground beef or sausage to the filling for a meatier version.
Make it ahead by assembling and refrigerating up to 24 hours before baking.
Use store-bought marinara or homemade for extra flavor control.
Find it online: https://sandrarecipes.com/stuffed-shells-recipe/