Stuffed shells are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings comfort to many households. Filled with various ingredients like cheese, vegetables, and meats, they offer endless possibilities for customization. In this article, I will share the nine best stuffed shells recipes that you can easily prepare at home.

Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, stuffed shells can impress any guest. They are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them a hit on any table. From classic cheese fillings to more inventive options, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Table of Contents

1. Classic Ricotta Stuffed Shells

a close-up shot of baked stuffed shells in a red casserole dish. the shells are filled with a white mixture, likely ricotta and spinach, topped with red sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. the dish sits on a burlap-covered surface, suggesting a rustic or homemade meal

Classic Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a popular Italian dish made with large pasta shells filled with a mixture of ricotta cheese, herbs, and sometimes spinach. This dish is comforting and flavorful.

I find these shells easy to prepare. The filling can be made in advance, which saves time during cooking.

Here’s how I make them:

Cook the Shells: Boil the pasta shells in salted water for about 10-12 minutes. Drain and let cool.

Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of grated mozzarella, 1 egg, and some chopped parsley. Mix well.
Fill the Shells: Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture.
Assemble: Spread a cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the filled shells on top and cover with more sauce and additional cheese.

Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a simple salad. Enjoying a plate of these stuffed shells always brings a smile to my face.

2. Spinach and Ricotta Shells

a close-up, overhead shot of a baking dish filled with stuffed shells. the shells are filled with a green mixture, likely spinach and cheese, and topped with red sauce and melted mozzarella. the dish is dark brown, and the sauce appears thick and rich, suggesting a warm, comforting meal

Spinach and ricotta shells are a delicious option for pasta lovers. They feature large pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach. This dish is both tasty and satisfying.

I find these shells easy to make. They are perfect for a weeknight dinner and please many palates.

To prepare, I follow these steps:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the large pasta shells according to package instructions.
In a bowl, mix together 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of cooked spinach, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Fill each pasta shell with the ricotta-spinach mixture.

Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish and arrange the stuffed shells on top.
Pour more sauce over the shells and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

These spinach and ricotta shells are sure to impress my family and friends with their rich flavors.

3. Meatball Stuffed Shells

a close-up shot of meatball stuffed shells in a white baking dish. large pasta shells are filled with meatballs, covered in red sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. the dish is filled with the rich red sauce, and the cheese is bubbly and golden, indicating a warm, comforting meal

Meatball stuffed shells are a delicious twist on traditional stuffed pasta. They combine pasta shells with savory meatballs and marinara sauce for a satisfying meal.

Making meatball stuffed shells is easy and fun. First, I prepare my meatballs using ground meat, spices, and breadcrumbs. Then, I cook large pasta shells until they are al dente.

Here are the steps I follow:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.

Prepare meatballs: mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings.
Bake meatballs in the oven for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked.
Fill each pasta shell with a meatball.

Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
Bake for an additional 15 minutes.

This recipe is satisfying and great for meal prep. I enjoy serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra flavor. Meatball stuffed shells are an easy option for a cozy dinner any night of the week.

4. Pumpkin Alfredo Stuffed Shells

a close-up shot of pumpkin stuffed shells in a creamy white sauce, served in a light-colored bowl. the pasta shells are filled with a bright orange pumpkin filling, topped with a white sauce and parmesan cheese. a white pumpkin is partially visible in the background, suggesting a fall or seasonal dish

Pumpkin Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a delicious twist on the classic pasta dish. They combine creamy pumpkin Alfredo sauce with hearty pasta shells, making a comforting meal.

I find this recipe easy to make, even for beginner cooks. It takes around 30 minutes from start to finish.

To begin, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Next, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg.

Now, fill each shell with the pumpkin mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.

For the sauce, combine 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese in a saucepan. Stir over low heat until smooth. Pour the sauce over the stuffed shells.

Finally, bake for 20 minutes. I recommend serving them warm, topped with additional cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy this creamy, savory dish.

5. Pesto Chicken Stuffed Shells

a close-up of spinach stuffed shells in a rectangular baking dish. the pasta shells are filled with a green mixture, likely spinach and ricotta, and topped with red sauce and melted mozzarella. the dish sits on a wooden surface, showing the rich colors and textures of the dish, suggesting a hearty meal

Pesto Chicken Stuffed Shells are a flavorful dish that combines large pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of chicken, pesto, and cheese. This recipe is quite easy to make, even for beginners.

To prepare, I used the following steps:

Cook the pasta: Boil the shells in salted water for about 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix shredded cooked chicken with pesto, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stuff the shells: Fill each shell with the chicken mixture using a spoon.

Arrange and bake: Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top, then cover with more sauce and sprinkle with extra mozzarella.
Bake: Cook in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes.

This dish is perfect for a family meal or when hosting friends. The delicious combination of pesto and chicken creates a lovely flavor that everyone will enjoy.

6. Mushroom Bolognese Stuffed Shells

an overhead shot of mushroom stuffed shells in a white and orange dutch oven. the pasta shells are filled with a dark mushroom mixture and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. the dish is set against a dark wooden background, suggesting a rustic and comforting vegetarian meal

Mushroom Bolognese stuffed shells are a delicious vegetarian option. They combine large pasta shells with a rich mushroom and tomato sauce filling. This dish offers a hearty flavor that many people enjoy.

Making these stuffed shells is quite simple. I find it easy enough for a weeknight dinner, especially if I prepare the sauce ahead of time.

Here are the steps I follow:

Cook large pasta shells according to package instructions.
In a pan, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until soft.
Add diced mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in crushed tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Fill each cooked shell with the mushroom Bolognese mixture.
Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with additional sauce and cheese if desired.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.

With these simple steps, I can enjoy a comforting meal that highlights the flavors of mushrooms in a satisfying way.

7. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

an overhead shot of buffalo chicken stuffed shells in a white rectangular baking dish. the shells are filled with shredded chicken, topped with white sauce and drizzled with a bright orange buffalo sauce. the dish sits on a dark wooden surface, showcasing the vibrant colors and textures of the dish

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delicious twist on traditional stuffed pasta. They combine the flavors of buffalo chicken with creamy cheese, making a unique and tasty dish.

I find these shells easy to prepare. They are perfect for a family dinner or game day. The recipe typically takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake.

Here’s how I make them:

Cook the Shells: Boil jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare Chicken Filling: In a bowl, mix shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce and cream cheese. Add shredded cheese for extra flavor.
Stuff the Shells: Fill each shell with the chicken mixture and place them in a baking dish.
Add Sauce: Pour extra buffalo sauce or ranch dressing over the stuffed shells for added taste.

Bake: Sprinkle with cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

These stuffed shells are not only flavorful but also satisfying. They offer a fun way to enjoy buffalo chicken in a different format.

8. Cheesy Italian Sausage Stuffed Shells

an overhead shot of meat-filled stuffed shells in a white speckled baking dish. the shells are filled with a dark meat mixture, topped with red sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. the dish is set against a light background, highlighting the rich colors and textures of the dish, suggesting a hearty meal

Cheesy Italian Sausage Stuffed Shells are a delicious dish I love to make. They consist of large pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of cheese, Italian sausage, and spices.

Making this dish is quite easy. I usually start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, I cook the pasta shells until they are al dente. This usually takes about 9-11 minutes.

In a bowl, I mix cooked Italian sausage with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Then, I add some chopped parsley and a bit of salt and pepper for flavor.

Once the shells are ready, I stuff each one with the cheese and sausage mixture. I place them in a baking dish topped with marinara sauce and more mozzarella cheese.

Finally, I bake them for about 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.

9. Lemon Basil Ricotta Shells

an overhead shot of stuffed shells in a light green baking dish. the shells are filled with a white mixture, topped with red sauce, a sprinkle of parmesan, and a fresh basil leaf. the dish is set against a dark background, showing the rich colors and textures of the dish, suggesting a classic italian meal

Lemon Basil Ricotta Shells are a light and flavorful dish. I enjoy making them because they are simple yet satisfying. The combination of ricotta, lemon, and basil creates a fresh taste that lifts the dish.

To make these stuffed shells, I use large pasta shells filled with a mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The freshness of the basil pairs well with the creaminess of the ricotta.

Here are my steps for preparation:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook 12 jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.

In a bowl, mix 1 cup of ricotta, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Add 1/4 cup of chopped basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in a baking dish.
Cover the shells with 1 cup of marinara sauce.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through.

This dish can be served with a side salad and crusty bread for a perfect meal.

How Do You Choose the Best Ingredients for Stuffed Shells?

When preparing stuffed shells, the ingredients play a crucial role in the flavor and texture of the dish. I focus on selecting the right pasta and perfect fillings to create a delicious meal that will impress everyone.

How Do You Select the Right Pasta for Stuffed Shells?

Choosing the right pasta is essential for a successful stuffed shell recipe. I prefer using jumbo shells, as their size makes them perfect for holding hearty fillings. Look for pasta that is made from 100% durum wheat semolina for better texture and taste.

When cooking the shells, I boil them for about 9-11 minutes until they are al dente. This way, they won’t break apart when I stuff them. After boiling, I immediately rinse them in cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps to keep them intact.

Additionally, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free options if dietary needs arise. This flexibility allows me to cater to different preferences while still delivering a fantastic dish.

What Are the Best Fillings for Stuffed Shells?

The filling is just as important as the pasta in stuffed shells. I often use a mixture of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a classic flavor. Ricotta provides a creamy texture, while mozzarella adds stretch and richness.

To enhance the filling, I like to incorporate fresh herbs such as basil and parsley. These give the dish a vibrant flavor and aroma. I also add sautéed vegetables or spinach for added nutrition and color.

For a meaty option, I sometimes mix in cooked ground beef or sausage. This adds depth to the filling and appeals to those who enjoy hearty meals. Adjusting the ingredients based on personal taste allows me to create variations that everyone will enjoy.

What Are the Top Tips for Cooking Stuffed Shells?

Cooking stuffed shells can be straightforward with the right techniques. I’ll share key tips on optimal baking times and the best sauce recommendations.

What Are the Optimal Baking Times for Stuffed Shells?

When baking stuffed shells, timing is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. I usually set my oven to 375°F (190°C) for optimal results.

Baking Duration:

For uncooked stuffed shells, bake for 30-35 minutes.
If shells are pre-cooked, a shorter time of 20-25 minutes works best.

I recommend checking for an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are heated thoroughly without drying out. Covering with foil during the first half of baking prevents excessive browning. I often remove the foil for the last 10 minutes. This approach lets the cheese get nicely browned and bubbly.

What Sauces Pair Best with Stuffed Shells?

The sauce you choose can greatly enhance the flavor of stuffed shells. I find that a simple marinara sauce works wonders. It complements the filling without overpowering it.

For a creamier option, alfredo sauce adds richness. I often combine 30% marinara and 70% alfredo for a balanced flavor.

Additional Options:

Pesto can add a fresh twist.
For a kick, try a spicy arrabbiata sauce.

I also like to sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top before baking. This adds a delicious, savory taste. Remember, the sauce should be heated before pouring over the shells to help them cook evenly.

9 Best Stuffed Shells Recipes: Delicious Creations to Elevate Your Dinner Table