Name: Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 cups marinara sauce; 1/4 cup water; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Shells jumbo pasta baked in a savory marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese—this classic Italian dish is the perfect comfort food for family dinners or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how versatile and crowd-pleasing this dish is. It combines the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese with the rich flavors of marinara sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether I’m hosting guests or preparing a cozy dinner, these ricotta stuffed shells are always a hit. Plus, it’s easy to customize with herbs, spices, or even protein for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cups marinara sauce

1/4 cup water

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Cook the Pasta Shells:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.

Prepare the Ricotta Filling:

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Mix until smooth and evenly combined.

Assemble the Dish:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add 1/4 cup water to the marinara and stir to thin slightly.

Stuff each cooked shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture and arrange them seam-side up in the baking dish.

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese.

Bake:

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Serve:

Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories: 325 kcal per serving

Variations

Protein-Packed: Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the marinara sauce for a heartier dish.

Vegetarian Boost: Mix chopped spinach or kale into the ricotta filling for extra nutrients.

Cheese Lover’s Delight: Use a mix of cheeses like fontina or provolone for added depth of flavor.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells for a celiac-friendly option.

Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red chili flakes over the marinara sauce for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Assemble the dish without baking and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

Related Recipes:

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

FAQs

How do I prevent the shells from sticking together while cooking?

I like to add a splash of olive oil to the boiling water and stir occasionally to keep the shells separate.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble the dish and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if cold.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! I find that high-quality store-bought marinara works great for this recipe, but homemade sauce is a delicious option too.

What can I serve with ricotta stuffed shells?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully with this dish.

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

If I’m out of ricotta, I use cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and grated Parmesan for a similar creamy texture.

Conclusion

Ricotta stuffed shells are a comforting and flavorful dish that never disappoints. With its creamy filling, savory marinara, and melted cheese, it’s a recipe I turn to time and time again for its simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal. Whether I’m prepping it for a casual family meal or a dinner party, it’s always a winner. Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!

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