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Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells

Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells

Festive jumbo shells stuffed with creamy spinach-ricotta, baked in marinara, and finished with a bright pesto drizzle. Cozy, colorful, and simple for the holidays.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 10 oz jumbo pasta shells
  • 3 cup marinara sauce
  • 0.33 cup basil pesto
  • 1.75 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divide for filling and topping
  • 0.67 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional heat
  • 1.25 tsp kosher salt plus more for pasta water
  • 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Heat oven to 375°F. Spread 1 cup marinara over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Boil shells in well-salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and cool slightly on a sheet pan.
  • Stir together ricotta, 1.5 cups mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, spinach, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper, 1 tsp salt, and black pepper.
  • Stuff each shell with about 2 tablespoons filling and nestle into the sauced baking dish.
  • Spoon remaining marinara over shells. Drizzle pesto in thin ribbons for a red-and-green finish.
  • Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover tightly with foil.
  • Bake 20 minutes. Uncover and bake 8–10 minutes more until bubbling and lightly browned. Broil 1–2 minutes if desired.
  • Rest 5 minutes. Scatter fresh basil over the top and serve warm.

Notes

Variation: Add 1/2 lb cooked crumbled Italian sausage to the filling for a meatier bake. Make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate; add 5–10 minutes to the covered bake time. Freezer-friendly: Freeze assembled dish (unbaked) up to 2 months; thaw overnight before baking.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Christmas Stuffed Shells flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.