Name: Easy Stuffed Shells Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/3 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness nestled inside perfectly cooked pasta shells, all baked in a bubbling layer of tomato sauce. These Easy Stuffed Shells Pasta are the weeknight comfort food your dinner table’s been waiting for. It’s cozy, indulgent, and wildly satisfying without being fussy. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or batch-cooking for the week, this recipe delivers every time.

Stuffed shells are the kind of dish that looks elegant but is easy to pull off. With a flavorful ricotta-spinach mixture tucked into tender pasta shells, this classic Italian-American favorite gets topped with marinara and plenty of gooey mozzarella. Once it bakes to golden, bubbly perfection, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dinner that tastes like it came from a cozy trattoria.

What Kind of Pasta Shells Should I Use?

For this dish, jumbo pasta shells (also labeled “conchiglioni”) are your best bet. Their wide openings and deep curves are perfect for holding that rich, creamy filling. Cook them just until al dente so they stay firm enough to hold their shape while baking.

Ingredients for the Easy Stuffed Shells Pasta

Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are essential for holding the cheesy filling. Be gentle while boiling so they don’t tear.

Ricotta Cheese: The creamy base of the filling. It adds a luxurious texture and mild flavor.

Mozzarella Cheese: For that signature gooey, melted top and extra richness inside the filling.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharpness and depth to the cheese blend.

Spinach: Fresh or frozen works; spinach adds earthy flavor and nutrition.

Egg: Helps bind the filling ingredients together.

Garlic: Freshly minced for an aromatic punch.

Italian Seasoning: Brings in the classic herbaceous notes of basil, oregano, and thyme.

Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the cheese mixture.

Marinara Sauce: A smooth, tomatoey base to bake the shells in and keep them moist and flavorful.

How To Make the Easy Stuffed Shells Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and let cool on a baking sheet so they don’t stick.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped spinach, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Fill the Shells

Use a spoon or piping bag to stuff each cooled pasta shell with the cheese mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread half the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the filled shells on top. Spoon the remaining sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and extra Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving and Storing Stuffed Shells Pasta

Serve these shells hot from the oven for a comforting dinner. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F, or microwave individual portions until heated through.

For longer storage, freeze the assembled (unbaked) dish. Wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the bake time.

What to Serve With Easy Stuffed Shells Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Perfect for scooping up that rich marinara and melted cheese.

Classic Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Try broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers to add color and nutrition.

Tomato Basil Soup

A warm and comforting starter to double down on Italian flavors.

Sauteed Green Beans

Adds freshness and crunch to your plate.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil keep things light and flavorful.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Caramelized edges and tangy glaze pair perfectly with cheesy pasta.

Crispy Eggplant Chips

For a little something crunchy on the side.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved these Easy Stuffed Shells Pasta, you’ll definitely want to try these mouthwatering pasta dinners:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a rich and savory twist.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe that’s full of creamy, dreamy goodness.
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for an even greener take on today’s recipe.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta if you’re craving skillet simplicity.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for an indulgent mashup that delivers.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add meat to the filling? Go heavy on the cheese? Swap in pesto for the marinara? I love hearing your delicious twists!

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