Cheese-Stuffed Jumbo Shells are the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. With their tender pasta shells filled with a creamy blend of cheeses and herbs, they’re incredibly satisfying and delicious. Plus, this dish is highly customizable, allowing you to incorporate your favorite ingredients or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 550mg
Why Make Cheese-Stuffed Jumbo Shells
Cheese-Stuffed Jumbo Shells are not only delicious but also a well-balanced meal packed with protein from the ricotta and eggs. They offer a delightful combination of textures from the creamy filling and melted cheese, making every bite an experience to savor. The best part is their versatility; whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, they can be made ahead of time, frozen, and baked when you’re ready to serve.
How to Make Cheese-Stuffed Jumbo Shells Step by Step
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Spaghetti sauce
- 20 oz ricotta cheese
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese (save some for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cracked black pepper
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Directions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella (save some for topping), grated Parmesan, eggs, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Mix everything together until smooth.
Step 2. Stuff the Shells: Boil the jumbo shells according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and cool them slightly before stuffing with the ricotta mixture. Using an ice cream scoop makes the process much easier.
Step 3. Assemble the Dish: Spread some spaghetti sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Carefully place the stuffed shells into the dish, then cover them with the reserved mozzarella cheese.
Step 4. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 minutes to let the cheese melt and become golden.
Step 5. Serve: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy.
How to Serve Cheese-Stuffed Jumbo Shells
Cheese-Stuffed Jumbo Shells pair beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also consider serving them alongside a fresh tomato basil salad to brighten the plate. For a comforting winter meal, a side of warm, roasted vegetables can elevate your dining experience.
How to Store Cheese-Stuffed Jumbo Shells
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, warm individual portions in the microwave or cover the baking dish with foil and heat in the oven until warmed through. For long-term storage, you can freeze unbaked stuffed shells. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container and bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Expert Tips for Cooking Cheese-Stuffed Jumbo Shells
- Cook the jumbo shells al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
- Make a double batch and freeze the extra shells to save time on busy nights.
- Top with fresh herbs before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
- Adjust the garlic or herbs to tailor the recipe to your palate.
Delicious Variations of Cheese-Stuffed Jumbo Shells
- Add cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the cheese filling for a veggie-packed dish.
- Spice things up by mixing in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- For a citrusy twist, add the zest of a lemon to the cheese mixture for a refreshing flavor.
Cheese-Stuffed Jumbo Shells offer a delightful culinary experience that everyone will love. With their rich flavors and creamy textures, you’ll want to make this dish a staple in your meal rotation. It’s simple, delicious, and versatile enough for any occasion, so gather your ingredients and give these exquisite shells a try!
