Three-Cheese & Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 4–6
Calories: ~410 kcal per serving
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Perfect For: Meatless Mondays, family dinners, or vegetarian guests
Description
Bring comfort to the dinner table with these Three-Cheese & Broccoli Stuffed Shells—a satisfying and wholesome twist on a classic Italian dish. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and tender broccoli, then smothered in marinara sauce and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s cheesy, cozy, and the perfect meatless main dish that’s just as good for entertaining as it is for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups steamed broccoli, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Cook the Pasta:
Boil the jumbo shells according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside. - Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped broccoli, and beaten egg. Season with a little salt and pepper if desired. - Fill the Shells:
Using a spoon, fill each shell generously with the broccoli and cheese mixture. - Prepare the Baking Dish:
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Assemble the Dish:
Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. - Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and slightly golden on top. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then top with freshly chopped basil if desired. Serve warm with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.
Tips & Variations
- Make ahead: You can assemble the shells and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for meal prep!
- Want extra creaminess? Add a few tablespoons of cream cheese or Alfredo sauce to the filling.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free jumbo shells if available.
- Add protein: Mix in chopped cooked chicken or ground turkey for a heartier version.
Serving Suggestion
- Perfect Pairings: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
- Wine Match: A crisp white like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti complements the cheesy, savory flavors.