Name: Classic Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup chopped fresh basil; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp pepper; 3 cups marinara sauce; ½ tsp garlic powder; 20-24 jumbo pasta shells

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Classic Stuffed Shells, isn’t there? Picture this: large pasta shells cradling a creamy blend of ricotta and mozzarella, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making your mouth water as you anticipate that first bite. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day or a cozy family gathering where laughter echoes around the table.

I remember the first time I attempted to make Classic Stuffed Shells. I was armed with nothing but enthusiasm and a questionable level of culinary skill—let’s just say my kitchen looked like a tornado had passed through afterward. But oh, the joy when I pulled that bubbling casserole out of the oven! This dish has since become my go-to for family dinners and potlucks because who doesn’t love cheesy goodness packed into oversized pasta? Trust me, your taste buds are going to thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, even for novice cooks.
The flavor profile strikes the perfect balance between creamy cheese and zesty tomato sauce.
Visually appealing with vibrant colors, it makes any dinner table come alive.
Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

Ingredients for Classic Stuffed Shells

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Jumbo Pasta Shells: About 20-24 shells should do; look for large ones to ensure they hold plenty of filling.
Ricotta Cheese: A staple in stuffed shells; choose whole milk ricotta for creaminess.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Go for part-skim mozzarella for the best melt and stretch.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds depth and enhances flavors beautifully.
Marinara Sauce: You can use homemade or store-bought; either works wonderfully in this recipe.
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil brightens up the filling and adds freshness.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip these basics!

For the Sauce:

Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle goes a long way to boost flavor without overpowering the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Classic Stuffed Shells

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so that your stuffed shells won’t stick like they’re auditioning for a horror movie.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook those jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente—about eight minutes usually does the trick. Drain them carefully and set aside while they cool off.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of your mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Stir it well until everything is uniformly mixed—think of it as creating an epic team of dairy products ready to take on pasta.

Step 4: Stuff Those Shells

Take each shell gently in hand (like it’s made of fine china) and fill it generously with the cheesy mixture using a spoon. Don’t be shy; pack it in there! Place each filled shell seam-side up in your prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce

Pour marinara sauce evenly over all the stuffed shells. Don’t be stingy—a good layer ensures every bite is bursting with flavor! Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top; this is where you want that gooey magic to happen.

Step 6: Bake

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down!) and bake for about twenty-five minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional ten minutes until bubbly and golden brown—this is when you’ll start hearing angels sing!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce if desired for that perfect finishing touch. You might want to grab extra napkins because trust me, you’ll want seconds. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

You Must Know

This delightful classic stuffed shells recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy ricotta with savory marinara, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Prepare your taste buds for a cheesy adventure that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente. While they cook, mix the cheese filling and prepare the sauce. Once the shells are ready, stuff them with the cheesy goodness and smother them in sauce before baking. Efficiency leads to perfection!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your classic stuffed shells by adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even ground meat to the cheese filling. Switch up your marinara with pesto or Alfredo for a unique twist that’ll surprise your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that cheesy goodness stays intact!

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use larger pasta shells for easier stuffing and a more satisfying bite.
Make sure you use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
Don’t skimp on sauce; it keeps everything moist and delicious!

Sometimes while cooking classic stuffed shells, I recall my first attempt where I accidentally used too much salt. My friends still tease me about it, but hey, at least we laughed our way through dinner!

FAQs :

What are Classic Stuffed Shells?

Classic stuffed shells are a popular Italian-American dish made with large pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The shells are then baked in marinara sauce and topped with more cheese for a delicious, hearty meal. This dish is perfect for family gatherings and can easily be customized with various fillings or sauces to suit your taste.

How do I store leftover Classic Stuffed Shells?

To store leftover classic stuffed shells, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

Can I make Classic Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can make classic stuffed shells ahead of time! Prepare the dish up until the baking stage, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.

What variations can I try with Classic Stuffed Shells?

You can experiment with various fillings and sauces when making classic stuffed shells. For instance, you could add spinach or ground meat for added flavor and nutrition. Additionally, try using different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist. You can also swap out marinara sauce for Alfredo or pesto for something different yet equally delicious.

Conclusion for Classic Stuffed Shells :

Classic stuffed shells offer a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and customize. With their cheesy filling and savory sauce, they are sure to please everyone at the table. Remember to experiment with different ingredients to keep your dish exciting. Whether you make them ahead of time or enjoy them fresh from the oven, classic stuffed shells will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!