Looking for a festive holiday meal? Try this Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe! These shells are creamy and delicious.
They look beautiful on any table. Your family will love them. This dish is perfect for Christmas dinner. The Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe is easy too.
You don’t need fancy skills. Just simple steps and good ingredients. Learn how to make Christmas Stuffed Shells today. It will become your new tradition!
When I First Discovered Christmas Stuffed Shells
I found this recipe five years ago. My aunt made it for Christmas Eve. I took one bite and smiled. The cheese was so creamy.
The sauce was rich and warm. I asked for her recipe immediately. She laughed and shared it with me. Now I make it every Christmas.
My kids wait for it all year. It brings our family together. That first taste changed my holidays forever.
Equipment List
You need these tools to start:
- Large pot for boiling shells
- Mixing bowl for filling
- Baking dish (9×13 inch works best)
- Spoon or piping bag
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
Ingredients You Need for Christmas Stuffed Shells
Here are the ingredients for Christmas Stuffed Shells:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide
- Fill a large pot with water.
- Add salt and bring to boil.
- Cook shells for 9 minutes.
- They should be slightly firm.
- Drain and let them cool.
- Mix ricotta in a bowl.
- Add mozzarella and parmesan.
- Crack in the egg.
- Add Italian seasoning.
- Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Spread one cup of sauce.
- Cover the bottom evenly.
- This stops shells from sticking.
- Spoon filling into each shell.
- Use about two tablespoons each.
- Place them in the dish.
- Keep them close together.
- Pour remaining sauce on top.
- Sprinkle extra mozzarella over shells.
- Cover dish with foil.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Bake covered for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake 10 more.
- Cheese should be bubbly and golden.
Tips to Make the Best Christmas Stuffed Shells
- Don’t overcook the pasta shells.
- They will tear easily.
- Let shells cool before stuffing.
- Use room temperature ricotta for smoothness.
- Add spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make ahead and refrigerate overnight.
- The flavors get even better!
FAQs about Christmas Stuffed Shells
Q: Can I freeze stuffed shells?
A: Yes, freeze before baking. They last three months easily.
Q: What sauce works best?
A: Marinara is classic and delicious. Alfredo sauce works great too.
Q: How many servings does this make?
A: This recipe serves about six people. Perfect for family dinners.
Q: Can I add meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground beef or sausage tastes amazing. Just cook it first.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe is special. It brings warmth to any table. The creamy filling melts perfectly.
The sauce adds beautiful color. Your guests will ask for seconds. How to make Christmas Stuffed Shells is now easy.
Follow these simple steps tonight. Make this your new holiday tradition. Happy cooking and Merry Christmas!
More Amazing Recipes
- Martha Stewart French Toast Recipe
- Martha Stewart Blueberry Muffins Recipe
- Martha Stewart Egg Strata Recipe
- Martha Stewart Blueberry Muffins Recipe
Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling shells
- Mixing bowl for filling
- Spoon or piping bag
- Baking dish (9×13 inch works best)
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water.
- Add salt and bring to boil.
- Cook shells for 9 minutes.
- They should be slightly firm.
- Drain and let them cool.
- Mix ricotta in a bowl.
- Add mozzarella and parmesan.
- Crack in the egg.
- Add Italian seasoning.
- Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Spread one cup of sauce.
- Cover the bottom evenly.
- This stops shells from sticking.
- Spoon filling into each shell.
- Use about two tablespoons each.
- Place them in the dish.
- Keep them close together.
- Pour remaining sauce on top.
- Sprinkle extra mozzarella over shells.
- Cover dish with foil.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Bake covered for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake 10 more.
- Cheese should be bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the pasta shells.
- They will tear easily.
- Let shells cool before stuffing.
- Use room temperature ricotta for smoothness.
- Add spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make ahead and refrigerate overnight.
- The flavors get even better!
