Pizza Stuffed Shells
Deliciously decadent Pizza Stuffed Shells filled with a savory blend of cheeses, meats, and marinara sauce for a comforting family favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta and Filling Ingredients
- 12 pieces Jumbo pasta shells The star of the show!
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese Provides a creamy texture.
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded For a melty, gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Adds a sharp and nutty flavor.
- 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled For protein; can substitute with turkey sausage.
- 1 cup Pepperoni slices, chopped Classic pizza flavor.
- 2 cups Marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning To enhance the flavor.
- 1 tbsp Fresh basil (optional) For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, cooked sausage, chopped pepperoni, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Fill each shell with the cheesy mixture and place in a lightly greased baking dish.
Baking
- Pour marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they are well-covered, and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden.
Serving
- Let the dish rest for about 10 minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and then serve.
Notes
You can substitute sausage and pepperoni with diced vegetables for a veggie-packed version. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Prepare ahead and freeze; bake directly from the freezer with extra time.