When it comes to family dinners, there’s no shortage of delicious and satisfying options. But sometimes you want something a little more special – something that will impress your loved ones and leave them wanting more. That’s where stuffed shells come in! These tasty pasta treats are filled with a variety of flavors and ingredients, from classic cheese to meaty sausages, and everything in between.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering stuffed shell recipes that are perfect for family dinners. From comforting classics to innovative twists, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, these recipes will provide endless inspiration and ideas for your next family gathering.
Classic Cheese Stuffed Shells with Marinara Sauce
A comforting and flavorful Italian-American classic, this recipe combines tender pasta shells filled with a creamy cheese mixture and served with a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 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 medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A classic Italian-American comfort food dish that combines the flavors of spinach, ricotta cheese, and homemade pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 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. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, 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.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the shells.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meat Lover’s Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef and Sausage
Get ready for a hearty twist on the classic stuffed shells recipe! This Meat Lover’s version combines ground beef, sausage, and rich tomato sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff cooked pasta shells with meat mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Top with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese; cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Three-Cheese Stuffed Shells with Alfredo Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish, featuring tender stuffed shells smothered in a velvety Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 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 medium 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. Pour Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mushroom and Goat Cheese Stuffed Shells
Mushroom and Goat Cheese Stuffed Shells: A creamy and earthy twist on the classic Italian dish.
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms and goat cheese with tender jumbo shells, creating a satisfying main course or impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– 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; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. In a bowl, combine cooked mushroom mixture, goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the mushroom-goat cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are tender.
7. Remove foil and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional); serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Pesto Stuffed Shells with Pine Nuts
A creative twist on classic stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flavors of pesto and pine nuts for a deliciously creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
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, combine ricotta cheese, pesto sauce, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and pine nuts. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this spicy and savory recipe that combines the flavors of buffalo chicken, ricotta cheese, and tender pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 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 medium bowl, combine cooked chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the buffalo chicken mixture and place in a baking dish.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle parsley on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lasagna-Style Stuffed Shells with Mozzarella and Parmesan
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on traditional stuffed shells. This recipe combines the flavors of lasagna with the convenience of a one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 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
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, 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 large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked meat mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the meat-cheese mixture and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the shells and top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, sun-kissed take on traditional stuffed shells. By incorporating the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
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 ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the shells are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Butternut Squash and Sage Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this seasonal twist on a classic dish. Roasted butternut squash and fresh sage add depth and warmth to traditional stuffed shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 medium butternut squash, roasted and mashed (see note)
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
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 mashed butternut squash, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped sage leaves. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the squash mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour tomato sauce over the 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
Greek-Inspired Stuffed Shells with Feta and Olives
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful twist on traditional stuffed shells, featuring the tangy goodness of feta cheese 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 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta, feta, olives, egg, and Parmesan. Mix well.
4. Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taco Stuffed Shells with Cheddar and Avocado
Elevate your pasta game with this creative recipe that combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of stuffed shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef, cooked
– 1/2 cup taco seasoning
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, and diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ground beef, taco seasoning, and softened cream cheese. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef mixture and place in a baking dish.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the stuffed shells and top with diced avocado.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster and Crab Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this luxurious recipe featuring succulent lobster and crab meat stuffed into jumbo shells, smothered in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1/2 cup lobster meat, flaked
– 1/4 cup crab meat, flaked
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Creamy sauce (see below)
Creamy Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 mixing bowl, combine lobster meat, crab meat, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the lobster-crab mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with creamy sauce (see below).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Creamy Sauce:
1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Stuffed Shells
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Stuffed Shells: A Creative Twist on Classic Lasagna
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted red peppers, creamy goat cheese, and tender pasta to create a unique and delicious twist on classic lasagna.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and chopped
– 1 (8 oz) log of goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 mixing bowl, combine roasted red peppers, goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the pepper-goat cheese mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Corn Stuffed Shells
A twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flavors of the Bayou with the comfort of a classic Italian dish. Spicy Cajun shrimp and sweet corn add a new dimension to this creamy pasta favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
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 shrimp in Cajun seasoning until pink, about 2-3 minutes. Add corn kernels and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked shrimp mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the shrimp and corn filling. Place shells in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this innovative recipe that combines the flavors of Eggplant Parmesan with the comfort of stuffed shells. This unique dish is perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 medium eggplants, 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 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, sauté eggplant slices in olive oil until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
4. Stuff cooked pasta shells with ricotta cheese mixture (eggplant, mozzarella, Parmesan).
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Broccoli Stuffed Shells with Cheddar
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the savory flavors of bacon and broccoli with the creaminess of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Fresh parsley, 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, cook bacon until crispy. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Set aside.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cheddar cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the bacon-broccoli mixture and top with the ricotta-cheddar mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Stuffed Shells with Brown Butter
This autumnal twist on classic stuffed shells combines the warmth of pumpkin and sage with the nutty richness of brown butter. A perfect dish for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 small pumpkin, cooked and mashed (about 2 cups)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Brown butter sauce (see below)
Brown Butter Sauce:
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix together pumpkin, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and sage.
4. Stuff each shell with the pumpkin mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top stuffed shells with brown butter sauce (see below).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Shells with Artichokes and Kalamata Olives
A twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the flavors of artichokes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a unique and delicious twist.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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 artichoke hearts, olives, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the Mediterranean filling, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, followed by Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Tofu Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Marinara
Experience the classic comfort of stuffed shells with a vegan twist! This recipe uses creamy tofu ricotta and marinara sauce to create a deliciously rich and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a blender, combine tofu, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the tofu ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these mouth-watering stuffed shells recipes! From classic cheese-filled shells to more adventurous options like buffalo chicken or lobster and crab, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or international inspiration, this collection of 20 delicious recipes has got you covered. With a range of fillings and sauces to choose from, you’ll never run out of ideas for family dinners. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy these stuffed shell masterpieces!