Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ricotta Cream

Name: Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ricotta Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ricotta Cream because it balances rich flavors with a simple, comforting presentation. The creamy ricotta filling blends beautifully with the savory pasta, and when nestled in tangy marinara, it becomes a symphony of taste. Preparing this dish is not only a treat for my family but also a fun activity we enjoy together, from stuffing the shells to savoring the final result. Trust me, every bite is an experience that brings smiles and satisfaction around the dinner table.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:25:12.552Z

When I first made Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ricotta Cream, I was struck by how simple ingredients could create something so decadent. The creamy ricotta combined with aromatic herbs makes the filling truly special. The key to making the shells perfect is to slightly undercook the pasta before stuffing; they will absorb more flavor from the sauce as they bake.

One tip I swear by is to allow the shells to rest after baking. This helps set the filling and makes serving much easier. The first time I served them to friends, I was delighted to see how quickly they disappeared, proving that this dish is a real crowd-pleaser!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta filling with a touch of herbs for extra flavor
Comfort food that is sure to impress family and friends
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner

      

Understanding the Pasta Shells

The choice of pasta shells is crucial for this recipe. Large pasta shells provide the perfect vessel for holding the creamy ricotta filling, allowing for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. When cooking the shells, it’s essential to achieve that perfect al dente texture. Cook them for about 8 minutes, ensuring they are firm yet tender enough to stuff without breaking. This will help maintain their shape when coated in marinara sauce and baked in the oven.

To further enhance the texture, consider undercooking the shells by a minute or two since they will continue to cook in the oven. This strategy prevents them from becoming mushy. Additionally, rinsing the cooked shells under cold water can help stop the cooking process and make them easier to handle while stuffing.

The Ricotta Filling Mastery

Ricotta cheese is the star of the filling, offering a creamy yet slightly grainy texture. When mixing the filling, ensure that everything is well combined for an even consistency. I recommend using a rubber spatula or a whisk to achieve a fluffy texture. Adding an egg not only binds the ingredients but also helps create a creamy, cohesive filling that doesn’t fall apart during baking. You can easily customize the filling by adding sautéed spinach for a nutritious twist or incorporating finely chopped herbs for added depth.

The balance of cheeses—ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella—plays a significant role in flavor development. Parmesan adds a sharpness to counteract the creaminess, while mozzarella contributes a lovely meltiness. If you’re looking for a dietary swap, using dairy-free cheeses or vegan ricotta can work well, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture might differ slightly. Adjust seasoning as needed, especially with non-dairy options, to achieve your desired taste.

Baking Tips for Perfect Results

When it comes to baking the stuffed shells, don’t skip the step of covering the dish with foil. This helps to trap moisture, ensuring your shells stay tender and the filling remains creamy. After the first 20 minutes of baking covered, removing the foil lets the top layer brown beautifully, creating a lovely golden crust. Keep a watchful eye on the shells as they bake, as ovens can vary—look for bubbling sauce and melted cheese as indicators that they are ready.

If you have leftover shells, consider freezing them prior to baking. Layer the stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be baked straight from the freezer—just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time for even cooking. Serving these shells with a fresh side salad or garlic bread elevates the meal and offers a complete dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Shells

12 large pasta shells
2 cups marinara sauce

For the Ricotta Filling

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh herbs if possible to elevate the flavors!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Pasta Shells

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Stuff the Shells

Carefully stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.

Add Marinara Sauce

Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the shells rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

For an extra touch, sprinkle more cheese on top before baking!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add sautéed spinach or ground meat to the ricotta filling for extra nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed pasta shells can shine as both a comforting main dish and a crowd-pleasing appetizer. For a rustic touch, serve them alongside a fresh basil garnish or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat. Accompanying the meal with a light salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta and cheese.

If hosting a gathering, consider preparing individual servings in small, oven-safe dishes. This not only elevates the presentation but also allows for easy serving. Pair these shells with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for added flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is perfect for making in advance. You can prepare the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil to keep the shells fresh, and remember to adjust the baking time if they are being baked cold from the refrigerator.

For longer storage, freeze the unbaked shells as mentioned earlier. When ready to enjoy them, allow the frozen shells to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. If you're short on time, you can bake straight from frozen, but ensure to extend the baking time by at least 10-15 minutes to ensure thorough cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pasta shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream if you prefer.

→ Can I freeze stuffed pasta shells?

Absolutely! Just freeze them unbaked in an airtight container for up to three months, then bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What should I serve with stuffed shells?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with stuffed pasta shells.