Delicious Olive Garden Jumbo Stuffed Shells Recipe for Comfort

If you’re craving classic comfort food that brings warmth and happiness to your table, this delicious Olive Garden jumbo stuffed shells recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with creamy ricotta filling, perfectly cooked pasta shells, and smothered in savory marinara sauce, this dish is a family favorite that’s sure to impress.

this Recipe

You’ll find this jumbo stuffed shells recipe easy to follow, with straightforward ingredients and simple steps to create a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, you’ll love how effortlessly it fills your home with irresistible aromas and flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy ricotta and mozzarella filling with fresh herbs
• Big jumbo pasta shells that perfectly hold the cheesy filling
• Baked in a robust marinara sauce for maximum flavor
• Comforting, warm, and perfect for family meals or entertaining
• Simple ingredients and easy to make ahead of time

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a classic jumbo stuffed shells recipe that delivers authentic Italian-American flavors.

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

How to Make Delicious Olive Garden Jumbo Stuffed Shells Recipe for the Best Comfort Food

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, usually 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and fully blended.
3. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
4. Fill each jumbo shell generously with the ricotta mixture using a spoon. Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in the baking dish over the marinara sauce.
5. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them completely. Sprinkle the reserved 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and slightly browned around the edges.
7. Remove from oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a bright, fresh touch.

Tips for the Best Results

• Don’t overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente since they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Use fresh herbs like parsley and basil to enhance flavor and add freshness.
• Let the dish rest after baking to allow flavors to settle and make serving easier.
• If you prefer a meatier version, add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the ricotta filling.
• For a richer texture, mix some shredded mozzarella into the ricotta filling as well as on top.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover jumbo stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them longer, freeze the fully assembled, unbaked dish tightly wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

Reheat refrigerated leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until warmed through. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make jumbo stuffed shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the shells a day ahead, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Bake them fresh just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or cream cheese mixed with a little milk to reach a similar texture. Both work well in the filling.

How do I prevent jumbo shells from sticking together?

After boiling, rinse the shells under cold water and toss gently with a little olive oil. This helps keep them separate and easier to fill.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be folded into the ricotta mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture before mixing.