Print

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Giant cheese stuffed shells are a comforting Italian-inspired pasta bake filled with a rich, creamy cheese mixture and baked in marinara sauce.

Ingredients

  • 20–24 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  5. Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture.
  6. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
  7. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
  8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
  10. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Add spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or cooked sausage for variations.
  • Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter filling.
  • Drain ricotta if the mixture seems too wet.
  • Dish can be assembled ahead and baked later.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/giant-cheese-stuffed-shells/