When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the humble stuffed shell. These classic Italian-American creations are easy to make, satisfyingly filling, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re a classicist who loves traditional cheese fillings or an adventurous soul who enjoys experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering stuffed shells recipes that are sure to become instant family favorites. From creamy cheese sauces to spicy sausage and everything in between, these dishes are perfect for any occasion – from casual weeknight dinners to special events like birthdays and holidays.
Classic Cheese Stuffed Shells with Marinara Sauce
A comforting Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender jumbo shells filled with a creamy cheese mixture and served in a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the shells and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining the flavors of spinach, ricotta cheese, and pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Three-Cheese Stuffed Shells with Garlic Butter
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent recipe that combines the creaminess of three cheeses and the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and garlic. Mix well.
4. Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Dot the top of each shell with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are golden brown and filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Meat Lover’s Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef and Sausage
Elevate your comfort food game with these hearty stuffed shells packed with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, sausage, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff cooked pasta shells with meat mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegetable Stuffed Shells with Zucchini and Mushrooms
This recipe is a creative twist on classic stuffed shells, featuring sautéed zucchini and mushrooms as the filling. The result is a deliciously flavorful and healthy take on a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini, mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked vegetables, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the vegetable mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
8. Remove foil and top with additional mozzarella cheese (optional). Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Alfredo Stuffed Shells with Chicken
This recipe combines the classic comfort of stuffed shells with the indulgent flavors of creamy alfredo sauce and tender chicken. The result is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, heavy cream, and butter. Mix well until smooth.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour remaining alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pesto and Mozzarella Stuffed Shells
Pesto and Mozzarella Stuffed Shells Recipe
A creative twist on classic stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flavors of pesto and mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy delight. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, pesto, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Sprinkle the top of the shells with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Jalapeño Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy sausage, crunchy jalapeños, and creamy ricotta cheese inside tender shells. Perfect for a twist on traditional stuffed shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add diced jalapeños, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are softened.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the sausage mixture, placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Top with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Lobster and Crab Stuffed Shells in White Wine Sauce
A decadent and flavorful pasta dish featuring succulent lobster and crab meat, wrapped in tender shells and bathed in a rich white wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo shells
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup freshly cooked lobster meat
– 1/4 cup freshly cooked crab meat
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add parsley and cook until wilted, 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Remove from heat.
5. Combine lobster and crab meat with the butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each shell with the seafood mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
7. In a large saucepan, whisk together flour and white wine. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, 2-3 minutes.
8. Stir in heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
9. Serve stuffed shells with white wine sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Lentil and Walnut Stuffed Shells
Vegan Lentil and Walnut Stuffed Shells Recipe: A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this plant-based version combines the comfort of lentils with the crunch of walnuts for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegan marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Vegan ricotta cheese alternative (such as cashew or soy-based)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cooked lentils, chopped walnuts, nutritional yeast, garlic, olive oil, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the lentil-walnut mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover shells with vegan marinara sauce and top with vegan ricotta cheese alternative.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and colorful twist on traditional stuffed shells. This recipe combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes, the brightness of fresh basil, and the comfort of a classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Shredded mozzarella cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells with Blue Cheese
Elevate your pasta game with this spicy and savory twist on classic stuffed shells. Creamy blue cheese and tangy buffalo chicken come together in a flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine chicken, buffalo sauce, and butter. Heat until warm and well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix blue cheese crumbles with ricotta cheese and egg.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the blue cheese mixture, followed by spoonfuls of the buffalo chicken mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and top with additional blue cheese crumbles.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-Inspired Stuffed Shells with Feta and Olives
Add a Mediterranean twist to traditional stuffed shells by combining the flavors of Greece with creamy ricotta, crumbly feta, and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pitted green olives
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, feta, olives, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover the shells with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Stuffed Shells with Brown Butter
Pumpkin and Sage Stuffed Shells with Brown Butter: A creamy, savory twist on traditional stuffed shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Brown butter (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, Parmesan cheese, sage, ricotta cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the pumpkin mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with brown butter (see below) and cover with aluminum foil.
Brown Butter:
1. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
Cooking Time:
– Bake stuffed shells at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
– Remove foil and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Mexican Stuffed Shells with Black Beans and Corn
This creative take on traditional stuffed shells combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of a classic Italian dish. By substituting black beans and corn for traditional ricotta cheese, you’ll add a boost of fiber and protein to this tasty twist.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced tomatoes or salsa for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, cheese, cilantro, olive oil, onion, and cumin. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the bean-corn mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Shells with Ranch Drizzle
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and savory dish that combines the comfort of stuffed shells with the richness of bacon and cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup ranch seasoning
– 1 cup cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and ranch seasoning. Stir until well combined.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the bacon-cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour cream over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the richness of eggplant parmesan with the comfort of stuffed shells, creating a unique and delicious twist on two Italian favorites.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, sauté eggplant slices in olive oil until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture, then top with an eggplant slice.
6. Place shells in a baking dish and spoon marinara sauce over the top.
7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Truffle Oil Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent and earthy take on classic stuffed shells. Savor the rich flavors of wild mushrooms and truffle oil in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms in truffle oil over medium heat until tender and fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked mushrooms, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the mushroom mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Cover shells with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and savory dish, featuring caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled goat cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture, followed by a spoonful of caramelized onions.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Stuffed Shells for Dessert
Elevate your dessert game with this innovative recipe that combines the classic flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts with the comfort of stuffed pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
– 1/2 cup melted semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Whipped cream or chopped hazelnuts for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together hazelnut spread, melted chocolate, butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt until smooth.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the chocolate-hazelnut mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is warm and the pasta shells are cooked through.
6. Serve warm with whipped cream or chopped hazelnuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these 20 mouth-watering stuffed shells recipes! From classic cheese to meat-lovers, veggie-packed, and even dessert options, there’s something for every occasion. Discover creative twists like lobster and crab, buffalo chicken, and Mexican-inspired flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this collection of recipes is sure to inspire your next meal or gathering. So go ahead, get stuffing, and enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness!
