Three Cheese Stuffed Shells are a delightful twist on traditional lasagna. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned with Italian herbs, and baked in a savory spaghetti sauce. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 20 uncooked jumbo pasta shells
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 8 ounces (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 jar (26 ounces) spaghetti sauce

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Pasta: Prepare the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente, approximately 9 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. Prepare Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1.5 cups of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, Italian seasoning, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
4. Assemble Dish: Spread 3/4 of the spaghetti sauce evenly on the bottom of a 13×9-inch (33×23 cm) baking dish.
5. Stuff Shells: Fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Three Cheese Stuffed Shells with a side salad and garlic bread, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving:

• Calories: 414 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Cholesterol: 101 mg
• Sodium: 1,298 mg
• Potassium: 605 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 7 g
• Vitamin A: 1,270 IU
• Vitamin C: 9 mg
• Calcium: 462 mg
• Iron: 2 mg

Why Three Cheese Stuffed Shells Are a Must-Try Dish

Three Cheese Stuffed Shells are one of the most comforting and satisfying Italian-inspired dishes you can prepare at home. This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta, the melt-in-your-mouth texture of mozzarella, and the sharp, nutty flavor of Parmesan, all stuffed into tender pasta shells and baked in a rich tomato sauce. Whether you are hosting a family dinner, preparing a meal for a special occasion, or just looking for an easy make-ahead dish, this recipe is a fantastic option.

The Appeal of Three Cheese Stuffed Shells

This dish has been a favorite in households for years, thanks to its combination of flavors and textures. The contrast between the creamy cheese filling and the slightly chewy pasta shells makes every bite enjoyable. The robust tomato sauce adds a tangy, slightly sweet balance to the dish, ensuring that it doesn’t become overly rich. What makes this recipe even more appealing is its versatility. You can tweak the cheese blend, adjust the level of seasoning, or even incorporate extra ingredients like sautéed spinach, ground beef, or mushrooms to suit your taste. The dish is easy to prepare in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or for serving guests without the last-minute stress.

Pairing Three Cheese Stuffed Shells with Other Dishes

Since Three Cheese Stuffed Shells are rich and hearty, it’s best to pair them with sides that offer balance. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish well by adding freshness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is another great addition, allowing you to soak up any leftover sauce. For those who enjoy a full Italian-style meal, consider serving this dish with a bowl of minestrone soup or a Caprese salad. If you’re looking for a wine pairing, a medium-bodied red wine like a Chianti or Sangiovese works beautifully with the acidity of the tomato sauce and the richness of the cheese.

Variations of the Recipe

One of the best things about Three Cheese Stuffed Shells is the ability to modify the ingredients to create new flavors. Here are some variations you can try:

• Meat Lover’s Version: Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the sauce or mix it into the cheese filling for an extra protein boost.
• Vegetarian Twist: Incorporate finely chopped spinach, kale, or roasted vegetables into the cheese mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce can elevate the dish.
• Pesto Infusion: Swirling a bit of basil pesto into the cheese mixture or on top of the shells before baking can give the dish a fresh, herbaceous twist.
• Four Cheese Option: If you want an even cheesier version, consider adding provolone or fontina to the filling for a deeper flavor.

The Convenience of Making It Ahead

One of the best aspects of this dish is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the stuffed shells and assemble the dish in the baking pan up to a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If you prefer freezing for future meals, Three Cheese Stuffed Shells freeze exceptionally well. Place the assembled (but unbaked) shells in an airtight container or cover them tightly with foil and plastic wrap. When you’re ready to cook, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as instructed. If baking from frozen, extend the cook time by about 20 minutes.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

While Three Cheese Stuffed Shells are an indulgent dish, they do offer some nutritional benefits. Ricotta cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which support muscle health and strong bones. Mozzarella and Parmesan provide additional calcium, while the tomato sauce contains antioxidants like lycopene, known for its potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease. For those looking for a slightly healthier version, you can use whole wheat pasta shells, low-fat ricotta, and a reduced-fat mozzarella blend. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables into the filling is a great way to boost fiber and nutrient intake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this dish is relatively simple, there are a few mistakes that can affect the final outcome:

• Overcooking the Pasta: It’s important to cook the pasta shells just until al dente, as they will continue to soften while baking. Overcooked shells can become too soft and break apart when stuffed.
• Not Draining the Ricotta Well: Ricotta cheese can have excess moisture, which may make the filling watery. Draining it using a cheesecloth or letting it sit in a fine-mesh strainer can help achieve a thicker consistency.
• Skipping the Egg: The egg in the cheese mixture acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the filling together as it bakes. Leaving it out may cause the filling to be too loose.
• Using Low-Quality Tomato Sauce: Since the sauce plays a key role in the flavor of the dish, using a high-quality store-bought or homemade tomato sauce will make a big difference in the overall taste.

Why Three Cheese Stuffed Shells Are a Great Family Meal

This recipe is a fantastic choice for feeding a crowd or serving a family dinner. The portioned-out shells make serving easy, and kids tend to love the creamy, cheesy texture. It’s also a great dish for introducing new flavors to younger eaters, as it’s mild yet flavorful.

Conclusion

Three Cheese Stuffed Shells are a timeless and comforting dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors. With a creamy cheese filling, tender pasta shells, and a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is both delicious and versatile. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. From its ease of preparation to its crowd-pleasing nature, this recipe is ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, or special occasions. Paired with a simple salad and a glass of red wine, it offers a complete dining experience that is both satisfying and memorable.