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Jumbo Pasta Shells Recipe

BySoha

Few dishes capture the heart of Italian comfort food like a beautifully baked tray of jumbo pasta shells. Each shell cradles a creamy, herb-scented cheese filling, surrounded by layers of rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. It is the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and homely, perfect for family gatherings or an elegant dinner at home. Every bite is warm, satisfying, and irresistibly rich in flavor.

Ingredients List

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 and ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or good quality store-bought)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Jumbo Pasta Shells Easy
Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a steady boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until just tender. Drain well, drizzle with olive oil, and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, one cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed.

Step 3: Fill the Shells

Using a spoon, carefully fill each shell with the cheese mixture. They should be full but not overflowing.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread one cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the filled shells neatly on top, then cover them with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.

Step 6: Serve

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve with a crisp salad or warm bread.

Cook Time

Total Time: 45 minutes
Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking: 25 minutes

Servings

Serves 4 to 6 people

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 21 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Calcium: 35% DV

Storage Instructions

Allow the shells to cool before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in a covered dish for up to two months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a little sauce if needed to keep them moist.

Suggestions

  • Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables to the cheese mixture for more depth of flavor.
  • For a richer taste, mix a small amount of cooked ground beef or Italian sausage into the marinara sauce.
  • A light drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a beautiful finishing touch.
  • Serve with a simple green salad or roasted garlic bread for a balanced meal.

Seasonal Relevance

Jumbo Pasta Shells are comforting and satisfying any time of year. They are especially wonderful in colder months when you crave something hearty and warm. During spring or summer, use fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, or a lighter sauce to give the dish a fresher touch.

Conclusion

Jumbo Pasta Shells are a celebration of everything that makes Italian food so loved—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a sense of warmth in every bite. Whether you are cooking for family or sharing a quiet dinner at home, this dish brings people together around the table with comfort and joy. It is a classic that never fails to impress.

Jumbo Pasta Shells Recipe
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Jumbo Pasta Shells Recipe

Recipe by Soha
Servings

4-6

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories

2280

kcal
Total time

45

minutes

Jumbo Pasta Shells is a comforting Italian-style baked pasta dish filled with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, seasoned with herbs and baked in rich marinara sauce. The combination of tender pasta shells, melted cheese, and aromatic sauce creates a warm, satisfying meal perfect for both weeknights and gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese

  • 1 and ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 cups marinara sauce

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells until tender. Drain, drizzle with olive oil, and let cool slightly.
  • In a bowl, mix ricotta, one cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Fill each shell with the cheese mixture.
  • Spread one cup of marinara sauce in a baking dish and arrange the stuffed shells on top.
  • Pour the remaining sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
  • Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the top is melted and golden.
  • Let rest for a few minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • You can add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the filling for a richer taste.
  • For a heartier version, mix cooked ground beef or sausage into the marinara sauce.
  • This dish freezes well; reheat in the oven for best results.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare Jumbo Pasta Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day before baking. Cover it tightly and keep it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. How can I keep the shells from sticking after boiling?
Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it lightly with olive oil. Spread the shells out on a tray so they cool without sticking.

3. Can this recipe be made gluten free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free jumbo shells and make sure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally suitable.

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