Basil Stuffed Shells Recipe

Craveable basil stuffed shells bursting with creamy ricotta, parmesan, and fresh basil, baked to perfection in a rich tomato sauce. This easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 55 mins
Calories 102.3 kcal
Protein 15g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Basil Stuffed Shells

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Basil Stuffed Shells

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 large egg
  • Ricotta Cheese
  • Parmesan Cheese
  • Nutmeg
  • Salt
  • Pasta Shells
  • 2 cups tomato sauce (your favorite kind)

How to Make Basil Stuffed Shells

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 1 large egg, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Bring 6 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 pound jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  4. Gently stuff each shell with approximately 3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture.
  5. Spread a thin layer of your favorite tomato sauce (about 1 1/2 cups) in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  6. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, seam-side down.
  7. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed shells.
  8. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese (optional).
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

17 g

Sugar

5g

Fat

19g

Carbs

1g