Prep Time: ~20 minutes
Bake Time: ~30–35 minutes
Total Time: ~50–55 minutes
Yield: ~6–8 servings
Introduction
Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells are festive, cheesy pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta and herb mixture, baked in rich tomato sauce and topped with melty mozzarella. This comforting and crowd-pleasing dish brings beautiful color and flavor to holiday dinners, family gatherings, or cozy festive meals.
Why This Dish Is So Delicious
This recipe combines tender pasta shells with a smooth, flavorful cheese filling and hearty marinara sauce. Baking allows the cheeses to melt perfectly and the flavors to meld, creating a warm, satisfying dish that’s as comforting as it is festive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Egg (optional, for binding)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Salt & pepper
For the Sauce
- Marinara or tomato sauce
- Olive oil
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Italian seasoning
The Art of Christmas Stuffed Shells
The success of this dish lies in perfectly cooked pasta and a well-seasoned cheese filling. The shells should be tender but firm so they hold the ricotta mix. A rich marinara blanket and generous cheese topping ensure every bite is warm, cheesy, and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Shells
Boil jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente.
Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a skillet, heat olive oil.
Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer briefly.
3. Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Optional: add egg to help bind the mixture.
4. Stuff the Shells
Spoon the cheese filling into each cooked shell, filling evenly.
5. Assemble & Bake
Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
Arrange stuffed shells on top.
Spoon more sauce over shells.
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
6. Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve
Let cool slightly.
Serve warm with extra sauce and fresh herbs.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcook shells — pasta should be firm to hold the filling.
- Use whole-milk ricotta for creamier texture.
- Add extra herbs to brighten the filling.
- Sprinkle more cheese on top for a golden crust.
Creative Variations
- Spinach & Ricotta: stir sautéed spinach into the filling.
- Meat Sauce: use sausage or ground beef in the sauce.
- White Sauce: swap marinara for Alfredo or béchamel.
- Pesto Twist: add pesto swirl on top.
- Veggie Loaded: include sautéed peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Storage & Freshness
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warm.
Freeze unbaked shells for up to 2 months; bake from frozen with extra time.
Conclusion
Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells are cheesy, comforting, and perfect for holiday meals. With creamy ricotta filling and hearty sauce, this pasta bake brings warmth and festive flavor to your table!
