Festive Pasta Bake | Christmas Stuffed Shells with Bubbly Mozzarella
These Christmas Stuffed Shells are filled with creamy ricotta, spinach, and herbs, then baked with marinara and cheese for a festive, make-ahead holiday dish.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Ingredients
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20–24 jumbo pasta shells
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15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
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½ cup grated Parmesan
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp salt
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1 cup cooked spinach (squeezed dry and chopped)
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3 cups marinara sauce
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Olive oil for pasta
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Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
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Cook shells until al dente. Drain, rinse, and toss with olive oil.
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Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
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In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, seasoning, salt, and spinach.
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Spread 1 cup marinara in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Fill each shell with 1–2 tbsp filling and arrange in dish.
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Top with remaining sauce and extra mozzarella.
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Cover and bake 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 10–15 minutes more until bubbly.
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Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Notes
Make up to 2 days ahead or freeze unbaked. Try red and white sauces swirled for a holiday look. Use gluten-free or vegan substitutions as needed.