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 baked in a rich tomato sauce and filled with a creamy ricotta and herb mixture. This comforting, crowd-pleasing dish blends tender pasta with melty cheese and savory seasonings — perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or memorable weeknight meals.
Why This Dish Is So Delicious
This recipe combines tender jumbo pasta shells with creamy ricotta filling, all coated in flavorful marinara and baked until bubbly and golden. The cheese filling is seasoned with herbs and spices that balance richness with freshness. It’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to be a favorite at holiday tables.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shells & Filling
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Egg (optional, for binding)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, basil)
- Garlic (minced)
- Salt & pepper
For the Sauce
- Marinara or tomato sauce
- Olive oil
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Italian seasoning
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
The Art of Christmas Stuffed Shells
Perfect stuffed shells are all about balance — pasta cooked al dente so it holds its shape, ricotta filling that’s creamy and well-seasoned, and sauce that coats everything with bright tomato flavor. Baking allows flavors to marry while melting the cheese filling, creating rich, warm layers your guests will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil jumbo shells in salted water until al dente.
Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until soft.
Add garlic and Italian seasoning, then stir in tomato sauce.
Simmer briefly to blend flavors.
3. Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
Optional: add an egg to help bind the mixture.
4. Stuff the Shells
Spoon the cheese mixture into each cooked shell, filling evenly.
5. Assemble in Baking Dish
Spread a layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange the stuffed shells on top.
Spoon extra sauce over the shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
6. Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until hot and bubbly and cheese is melted.
7. Serve
Let cool slightly.
Garnish with extra herbs and serve warm.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not overcook pasta — shells should be al dente to hold filling.
- Use whole-milk ricotta for richest texture.
- Add extra herbs for brightness.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a little heavy cream or mascarpone.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
Creative Variations
- Spinach & Ricotta: stir cooked spinach into the filling.
- Meaty Sauce: use a ground beef or sausage tomato sauce.
- White Sauce: swap marinara for Alfredo or béchamel sauce.
- Pesto Swirl: add a drizzle of basil pesto on top.
- Veggie Boost: add sautéed mushrooms, peppers, or zucchini.
Storage & Freshness
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warm.
Freeze unbaked shells in a covered dish for up to 2 months; bake from frozen with extra time.
Conclusion
Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells are cheesy, comforting, and perfect for festive family meals. With creamy filling and rich sauce, this hearty pasta bake brings warmth and flavor to your holiday table or cozy weeknight dinner.
