There’s a certain magic that envelops the holiday season, and food plays a huge role in creating that warmth. This year, I’m excited to share my personal take on Best Christmas Stuffed Shells. Packed with creamy ricotta and topped with rich marinara, these jumbo pasta shells are a festive treat that is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. When you fill your table with these delicious stuffed shells, they’ll elevate your holiday celebrations and make your kitchen feel like a warm hug.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Imagine a dish that combines comfort, nostalgia, and just a hint of elegance—this is it! Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just want an easy weeknight dinner, these stuffed shells check all the boxes. They’re budget-friendly, filling, and can please even the pickiest eaters at your table. Perfect for a Christmas gathering, a family brunch, or simply as a delightful dinner treat, you’ll find that these shells become a staple in your holiday traditions.

“This dish was a hit with my family! Everyone went back for seconds, and I love that it didn’t take long to prepare. I’ll definitely be making these again for Christmas!”

Preparing Best Christmas Stuffed Shells

Making these stuffed shells is easier than you might think. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect: start by preheating your oven, and while it warms up, cook those pasta shells to perfect al dente. After that, you’ll whip up a creamy cheese filling that’s sure to impress. Stuff the shells, layer your baking dish, and let the oven work its magic. You’ll have a beautiful dish ready to serve in no time!

What You’ll Need

To create the perfect stuffed shells, gather the following ingredients:

20 jumbo pasta shells
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to substitute the cheeses if needed, or add some garlic or spinach for an extra flavor kick!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Stuff each pasta shell with the rich cheese mixture.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce at the base of a baking dish.
Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.
If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some extra mozzarella on top!
Cover your dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes.
After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the tops are bubbly and golden.
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before you serve.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These stuffed shells are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your meal by serving them with fresh garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad. If you want to add a festive touch, consider pairing them with roasted veggies or a vibrant holiday-themed side dish. A glass of Chianti or a sparkling cider makes for a perfect drink pairing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quicker option. To freeze the stuffed shells, prep them before baking, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply bake from frozen—just add some extra time to ensure they cook through.

Pro Chef Tips

To take your stuffed shells to the next level, consider adding a splash of lemon zest to the cheese mixture for a burst of freshness. Additionally, don’t hesitate to swap out the Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a more vibrant flavor profile. If you’re pressed for time, you can also use store-bought marinara sauce—honestly, some brands are delicious enough that it’s a great shortcut!

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Try experimenting with different fillings like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even ground meat mixed into the cheese. You could also swap marinara for a pumpkin or Alfredo sauce for a delightful twist on the traditional dish. For a healthier version, use whole-wheat pasta shells or make a lighter ricotta filling with herbs and spices.

Common Questions

What’s the prep time for this dish?
You can expect about 30 minutes of prep time, plus another 35 minutes of baking.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely! They freeze well, so you can prepare a batch ahead of time and simply bake them when you’re ready to eat.
What cheese can I use instead of ricotta?
Cottage cheese works well if you want a lower-fat option, or you could even blend cream cheese for a creamy texture.

I hope you enjoy making and sharing these Best Christmas Stuffed Shells! They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience all on their own. Happy cooking!

Delicious Christmas Stuffed Shells filled with cheese and herbs, served in festive dish

Best Christmas Stuffed Shells

These festive stuffed shells are filled with creamy ricotta and topped with rich marinara, making them a perfect dish for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 35

Total Time 1 5

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

Pasta and Sauce

20 pieces jumbo pasta shells
2 cups marinara sauce Plus an extra cup for spreading at the base of the baking dish

Cheese Filling

15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Plus extra for topping
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
to taste Salt and pepper

Garnish

to taste Fresh parsley For garnish

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Assembly

Stuff each pasta shell with the rich cheese mixture.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce at the base of a baking dish.
Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.
If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some extra mozzarella on top!

Baking

Cover your dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes.
After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the tops are bubbly and golden.
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before you serve.

Notes

These stuffed shells pair perfectly with fresh garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad. For a festive touch, consider serving them with roasted veggies or a holiday-themed side dish.

Keyword Cheesy Pasta, Christmas Stuffed Shells, comfort food, Holiday Recipes, Stuffed Pasta