Creamy Baked Stuffed Shells: A Heavenly Treat

Name: Creamy Baked Stuffed Shells: A Heavenly Treat
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: For the Creamy Tomato Sauce:; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 medium shallot, finely diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/3 cup tomato paste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt, to taste; For the Herb Pesto Oil:; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 garlic cloves; 1/2 cup olive oil; Salt, to taste; For the Filling & Assembly:; 6 ounces fresh spinach; 1 pound ricotta cheese (about 2 cups, drained); 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided; 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 2 large egg yolks; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 pound jumbo pasta shells (conchiglioni)

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 3 October 2025

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Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy have a way of making any weeknight feel like a special occasion. I remember the first time I made them, the aroma of garlic and baked cheese filling my kitchen was simply intoxicating. My kids, usually picky eaters, were practically at the table before I even called them! This recipe for creamy baked pasta shells is now a family favorite, a true testament to comfort food done right. If you’re looking for an impressive yet surprisingly simple meal, this creamy baked stuffed pasta shells recipe is your answer. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy

This dish is pure comfort in a baking dish! You’ll adore the rich, savory flavors and the wonderfully creamy texture.

Incredible Taste: The combination of tender pasta, creamy ricotta filling, and luscious tomato sauce is simply divine.

Quick Prep Time: While it bakes for a while, the actual hands-on prep is surprisingly fast, making it manageable even on busy nights.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike devour these creamy baked pasta shells; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Budget-Friendly: Made with common pantry staples, this recipe is a delicious way to create an impressive meal without breaking the bank.
Versatile: Easily adaptable for different dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Pure Indulgence: Get ready for those satisfying, cheesy creamy stuffed shells that feel truly special.
Satisfying Dinner: It’s a complete meal that leaves everyone feeling full and happy.

Ingredients for Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy

Gathering these ingredients is the first step toward creating a truly memorable meal. For the best creamy ricotta stuffed shells recipe, fresh components make all the difference. These ingredients will help you achieve that perfect baked jumbo shells creamy filling.

1 pound jumbo pasta shells (conchiglioni) – these hold all the delicious filling
1 pound ricotta cheese (about 2 cups, drained) – draining is key for a thick, creamy filling
6 ounces fresh spinach – blanched and squeezed dry to avoid watering down the filling

2 cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided – adds a salty, nutty depth
2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided – for that essential cheesy, gooey pull
2 large egg yolks – helps bind the filling together

Salt and black pepper, to taste – essential for seasoning
For the Creamy Tomato Sauce:
1/4 cup olive oil – the base for our flavorful sauce
1 medium shallot, finely diced – milder than onion, adds subtle sweetness

2 garlic cloves, minced – a must for any Italian dish!
1/3 cup tomato paste – concentrated tomato flavor
1 cup heavy cream – the magic ingredient for a rich, creamy sauce
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a hint of heat

Salt, to taste – to balance the flavors
For the Herb Pesto Oil:
1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed – for a bright, fresh finish
1 teaspoon lemon zest – adds a lovely zing
2 garlic cloves – for a pungent kick in the pesto
1/2 cup olive oil – to blend the pesto ingredients

Salt, to taste – for seasoning the pesto

Creamy Baked Stuffed Shells: A Heavenly Treat - Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy - main visual representation

How to Make Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy

Get ready to create a truly spectacular dish. These steps will guide you to making the most delicious baked jumbo pasta shells, packed with creamy goodness.

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, let’s get started on the components.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Tomato Sauce. Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced shallot and minced garlic, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute until it darkens slightly, which deepens its flavor. Pour in the heavy cream, add the red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Next, make the vibrant Herb Pesto Oil. Blanch the basil leaves in boiling water for just 10 seconds, then immediately plunge them into an ice bath to preserve their bright green color. Drain them very well. In a blender, combine the blanched basil, lemon zest, 2 garlic cloves, 1/2 cup olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until you have a smooth, fragrant oil.
Step 4: Now for the creamy filling! Blanch the fresh spinach for about 1 minute, drain, and squeeze out as much excess water as possible – this is crucial to avoid a watery filling. Chop the spinach finely. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese (make sure it’s well-drained!), 1 cup of the Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese, and the 2 large egg yolks. Mix in the chopped spinach and season generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions, but undercook them slightly, aiming for about 8 minutes so they are just shy of al dente. Drain them, but be sure to reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Stir about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water into your creamy tomato sauce to achieve a smoother, more pourable consistency.

Step 6: Assemble your masterpiece! Spread about 3/4 cup of the loosened creamy tomato sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Carefully stuff each undercooked pasta shell with a generous amount of the ricotta-spinach filling. Arrange the filled shells snugly in the baking dish. Pour the remaining stuffed shells with creamy sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add another splash of the reserved pasta water over the cheese topping; this helps create a beautiful golden crust.
Step 7: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the shells to cook through and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 8: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is wonderfully bubbly and golden brown. The aroma of these creamy spinach stuffed shells baking is absolutely divine!

Step 9: Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle generously with the herb pesto oil just before bringing it to the table. Enjoy your incredible homemade baked stuffed shells creamy!

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy

To truly elevate your creamy baked pasta shells, a few little tricks can make all the difference. I’ve learned these over the years, and they guarantee a restaurant-worthy dish right from your own oven.

Always drain your ricotta cheese thoroughly; a fine-mesh sieve works wonders. This prevents a watery filling that can make your dish soggy.

Don’t overcook the jumbo shells when boiling them. They should be al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven, preventing mushy pasta.
Use fresh, good-quality ingredients for the pesto oil. The bright basil and lemon zest really cut through the richness of the creamy sauce.
Allow the finished dish to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up beautifully, making it easier to serve and allowing the flavors to meld.

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy?

The real secret to perfect creamy Italian stuffed shells lies in balancing the rich, creamy elements with bright, fresh flavors. Ensuring the ricotta is well-drained and adding that finishing touch of vibrant pesto oil cuts through the richness beautifully.

Can I make Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out these budget-friendly recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy?

The most common pitfalls are a watery filling from not draining the ricotta or overcooking the pasta shells. Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach too. Undercooking the shells slightly when boiling them is key to avoiding a mushy texture. For more tips on pasta preparation, you can refer to this guide on cooking pasta perfectly.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy

Serving this incredible dish is almost as enjoyable as making it! These creamy baked jumbo pasta shells are hearty enough to be the star of any meal, but pairing them with the right sides really makes them shine. I love serving them with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to add a fresh contrast to the rich pasta. A crusty garlic bread is also a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any extra creamy tomato sauce left in the dish.

For a truly satisfying dinner, consider a side of steamed or roasted green beans or asparagus. These simple vegetable sides add a lovely color and a touch of freshness that balances the indulgence of the stuffed shells beautifully. You might also enjoy these easy side dishes that pair well with pasta.

Nutrition Facts for Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy

When you’re indulging in these delicious creamy baked stuffed pasta shells, it’s helpful to know what you’re working with. These numbers are based on a single serving, which typically includes one large stuffed shell. Remember, these are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use.

Calories: Approximately 350
Fat: Approximately 20g
Saturated Fat: Not specified
Protein: Approximately 18g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 22g
Fiber: Not specified
Sugar: Not specified
Sodium: Not specified

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy

Don’t let any delicious leftovers go to waste! Properly storing and reheating your baked stuffed shells creamy ensures you can enjoy this comforting meal again. Once the dish has cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. These containers are perfect for both refrigerator and freezer storage, keeping your creamy baked pasta shells fresh.

For refrigerated storage, keep the covered dish in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save them for longer, they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. For refrigerated leftovers, you can reheat them in a microwave-safe dish at 50% power until heated through, or for a crispier top, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy

What are creamy stuffed shells?

Creamy stuffed shells are a classic Italian-American comfort food dish. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a rich, creamy mixture, typically ricotta cheese, and then baked in a flavorful sauce, often tomato-based, and topped with melted cheese. My version adds spinach to the filling and a luscious creamy tomato sauce for extra flavor and texture, making them truly special.

How to make creamy stuffed shells?

Making creamy stuffed shells involves a few straightforward steps. You’ll first cook the jumbo shells until al dente. While they cook, prepare a creamy filling, usually with ricotta, spinach, and cheese. Next, you’ll make a creamy sauce to coat the shells. Stuff each shell with the filling, arrange them in a baking dish, cover with sauce and more cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden. A final drizzle of pesto oil adds a lovely fresh finish.

Can I use different cheeses in my creamy baked pasta shells?

Absolutely! While ricotta is traditional for the creamy filling, feel free to experiment. Provolone, fontina, or even a bit of goat cheese can add unique flavor profiles to your baked stuffed shells creamy. Mozzarella is a must for that classic cheesy pull, but you can mix in Gruyere or a sharp cheddar for a more complex flavor. For more cheese inspiration, explore these cheese pairing ideas.

What are good side dishes for creamy stuffed shells?

These creamy baked jumbo pasta shells are quite rich, so light and fresh sides work best. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery contrast. Steamed or roasted asparagus or green beans add a lovely fresh element. And of course, crusty garlic bread is always a welcome addition for soaking up any extra sauce!

Variations of Baked Stuffed Shells Creamy You Can Try

If you love this classic dish, you’ll be thrilled to know there are so many ways to customize it! These variations ensure there’s a delightful version of creamy baked pasta shells for everyone.

Creamy Vegetarian Stuffed Shells: For a hearty vegetarian option, simply omit any meat and boost the veggies. Add sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts to the ricotta filling for extra flavor and texture. You can also incorporate more greens like chopped kale or Swiss chard.

Creamy Seafood Stuffed Shells: Elevate your dish by adding cooked shrimp, crab meat, or small bay scallops to the ricotta filling. A touch of lemon zest in the filling complements the seafood beautifully. You might also consider a lighter, creamy white wine sauce instead of tomato for this variation.
Gluten-Free Baked Stuffed Shells: Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and gluten-free breadcrumbs (if your recipe calls for them in the filling) to make this dish suitable for those avoiding gluten. The creamy sauce and cheesy filling remain the same, offering all the comfort without the gluten.
Spicy Baked Stuffed Shells: For those who love a kick, increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ricotta filling. A drizzle of spicy chili oil on top just before serving is another great way to amp up the heat in your baked stuffed shells creamy.