Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delight your family with these creamy and flavorful Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells. Packed with luscious ricotta cheese, fresh herbs, and smothered in marinara sauce, this comforting dish is simple to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It's a delicious way to enjoy classic Italian flavors, offering a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-20T07:07:57.410Z

This recipe for Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells brings together the rich flavors of Italian cuisine in a simple dish that the whole family will enjoy.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells are not just a delightful weeknight meal; they're versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or simply wanting a comforting dish, these stuffed shells fit the bill. The creamy ricotta filling and rich marinara sauce make them an irresistible option for both casual dining and special celebrations.

When you're entertaining guests, presentation is key. Arrange the stuffed shells in a beautiful baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. They not only taste amazing but also look stunning on the table. Your friends and family will be impressed, and they won’t believe how easy they were to prepare!

Kid-Friendly and Family Approved

One of the standout features of these stuffed shells is their kid-friendly nature. Children love the cheesy, creamy filling and the fun shape of the pasta. It's a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients with the herbs and cheese while keeping the meal delicious and appealing. With one bite, they'll be asking for seconds!

Getting kids involved in the kitchen can also enhance their excitement about eating. Let them help with stuffing the shells or sprinkling cheese on top. Creating these Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells becomes a delightful bonding activity, turning mealtime into a fun family tradition.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

These stuffed shells are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare them in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Simply assemble the shells, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easy to have a homemade meal ready for busy days without sacrificing taste or quality.

If you have leftovers, don't worry! Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. They also freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. Just assemble, freeze, and when you're ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You'll have a comforting dish ready to enjoy at a moment's notice!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

12 large pasta shells
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cups marinara sauce

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to assemble the dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stuffed shells:

Prepare the Pasta

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

Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Using a spoon, fill each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until bubbly.

Your Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells are now ready to serve. Enjoy!

Nutritional Benefits

These stuffed shells offer a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, making them a wholesome meal option. Ricotta cheese is an excellent source of calcium and protein, essential for strong bones and muscle health. Mixing in fresh parsley adds a dose of vitamins A, C, and K, promoting overall well-being.

Using whole wheat pasta shells instead of regular pasta can boost the fiber content, further enhancing the nutritional profile. Overall, these stuffed shells provide satisfying comfort food without compromising on health, ensuring that your family enjoys every delicious bite.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of Best Easy Ricotta Stuffed Shells is their versatility. You can customize the filling according to your preferences. Consider adding cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even ground meat for an added flavor dimension. This allows you to make the recipe your own, catering to the tastes and dietary needs of your family.

You can also modify the sauce used. While marinara is classic, you could experiment with alfredo sauce for a creamy twist or a homemade pesto for a fresh and vibrant flavor. The possibilities are endless, encouraging creativity in the kitchen while ensuring a memorable meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours.