Name: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells to Satisfy Your Comfort Food Cravings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 12 jumbo shells Pasta Shells (Cook al dente); 4 tablespoons Salted Butter; 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 0.25 cups All-Purpose Flour; 2 cups Milk (whole milk works best); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream; 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (shredded or grated); 1.5 cups Ricotta Cheese; 1 cups Italian Blend Shredded Cheese; 0.25 cups Sliced Green Onions; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; to taste Salt; to taste White Pepper

As I pulled the bubbling casserole out of the oven, the aroma enveloped my kitchen like a warm hug. These Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells have become a weekly favorite in my home, effortlessly transforming even the most hectic evenings into comforting culinary moments. With creamy ricotta tucked within tender pasta and smothered in a rich garlic Alfredo sauce, this dish is truly a cheesy pasta lover’s dream come true. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also comes together in no time—making it perfect for family dinners or unexpected guests. Each bite offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that’ll leave you craving more! Are you ready to savor this comforting masterpiece for yourself?

Why Will You Love Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells?

Cheesy Delight: Each shell is generously filled with rich ricotta and an Italian cheese blend, creating a burst of flavor in every bite.

Effortless Preparation: This recipe is designed for busy evenings! It comes together quickly without sacrificing quality, making it ideal for last-minute family meals.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out cheeses or add in veggies like spinach for a nutritious twist. You can even make it your own with various seasonings!

Crowd Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, this dish will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more, just like my beloved Baked Mac Cheese.

Comforting Texture: With its creamy filling and gooey sauce, these stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort food, reminiscent of warm family dinners.

Easily Stored: Leftovers can be refrigerated and are just as delicious when reheated, keeping the magic alive for days.

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells Ingredients

• Discover the flavors that create this beloved dish!

For the Pasta

Pasta Shells – These large shells provide the perfect vessel for holding your cheesy filling. Cook them al dente for easy stuffing.

For the Sauce

Salted Butter – Adds a rich, buttery flavor to your sauce; you can opt for unsalted if preferred.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses the sauce with aromatic, savory notes, best when using fresh garlic.
All-Purpose Flour – Essential for thickening the sauce, creating that creamy consistency we love.
Milk – A base for the sauce; whole milk works best for achieving that dreamy creaminess.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds depth and richness; substitute with more milk for a lighter sauce.
Parmesan Cheese (shredded or grated) – Intensifies the cheese flavor in your sauce; fresh-grated cheese melts beautifully.

For the Filling

Ricotta Cheese – The star of the filling, bringing creaminess and texture to each shell.
Italian Blend Shredded Cheese – Adds wonderful flavor and helps bind the filling together; mozzarella or cheddar can be used as substitutes.
Sliced Green Onions – Offers a fresh scallion flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
Garlic Powder – Elevates the garlic taste in the filling; adjust the amount to suit your personal preference.
Onion Powder – Complements the garlic and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Salt and White Pepper – Adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning; use black pepper if you don’t mind a bit of color change in the sauce.

Embrace the deliciousness of Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells with these thoughtful ingredients, ready to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary culinary experiences!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This important step ensures that your Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells will cook evenly and develop a lovely golden-brown top as they bake. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace for a smoother cooking experience.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them for 2 minutes less than the package instructions for al dente texture. Once done, drain the shells and immediately cool them under cold water. This halts the cooking process, ensuring they don’t become too soft for stuffing later.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Alfredo Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter until bubbly. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until you achieve a light golden color that signals it’s time to add your liquids.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy whipping cream while whisking continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer for around 5 minutes until it thickens nicely. Stir in 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the sauce, and season with salt and white pepper to taste.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of ricotta cheese, half of the Italian blend shredded cheese, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and the sliced green onions. Mix until the filling is well-combined and creamy. This rich filling will add plenty of flavor to your Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells.

Step 6: Assemble the Stuffed Shells
Spread half of the prepared garlic Alfredo sauce evenly on the bottom of a large casserole dish. Carefully stuff each cooled pasta shell with about ¼ cup of the cheese filling, then place them in the dish in a single layer. Continue this process until all shells are filled and nestled snugly in the sauce.

Step 7: Add the Final Touches
Once the shells are filled and arranged, pour the remaining garlic Alfredo sauce over the top, ensuring each shell is covered. Sprinkle the remaining Italian blend shredded cheese over the sauce for that irresistible cheesy melt. This layer adds a lovely golden crust while baking, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the dish; it should be hot and bubbly when ready. For an extra touch, switch to broil for the last 2 minutes, creating a deliciously browned top that beckons you to dive in.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let your Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the sauce to cool slightly. Plate up and enjoy this comforting dish warm, likely to become a favorite in your home just like it has in mine!

Make Ahead Options

These Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade flavors even on the busiest nights! You can prepare the filling and garlic Alfredo sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them separately, ensuring the filling is kept airtight to maintain its freshness. Cook the pasta shells just prior to assembly to prevent them from becoming too soft. When you’re ready to enjoy the meal, stuff the shells, pour the sauce over them, and bake them as directed—this makes for a quick and delightful dinner with minimal effort! Trust me, they’ll be just as delicious and satisfying!

How to Store and Freeze Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Allow the stuffed shells to cool before covering to maintain their texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Place them in a freezer-safe container and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

Airtight Tips: Always cover the dish with aluminum foil while reheating to prevent drying out, and remove it for the last few minutes to achieve that lovely golden top.

Tips for the Best Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Cook Al Dente: Ensure the pasta shells are firm while cooking; this helps with easy stuffing and prevents them from breaking.
Cheese Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix different cheeses, such as fontina for a creamier texture or mozzarella for that gooey stretch in your Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano elevates the overall flavor of the sauce, making it taste homemade and authentic.
Layer Carefully: Spread the sauce evenly in the casserole dish before placing the shells; this ensures every bite is infused with rich, garlicky goodness.
Broil for Browning: For a delightful, bubbly top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning!
Presentation Matters: Adding chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving can enhance the visual appeal and flavor of your Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells.

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells Variations

Inviting your creativity, these variations will allow you to make this dish uniquely yours!

Cheddar Twist: Substitute Italian blend cheese with sharp cheddar for a zesty flavor. The bold taste will certainly delight cheese lovers.
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms into the ricotta filling. This adds a nutrition boost and delightful texture.
Meat Lovers: Mix in crumbled cooked sausage or ground beef with your filling for a heartier option. This variation makes for a deeply satisfying meal.
Spicy Kick: Consider adding diced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese in the filling. The heat can turn up your comfort food experience and keep you on your toes!
Herbed Cheese Delight: Use herbed goat cheese instead of ricotta for a sophisticated flavor profile. This twist transforms the dish into something truly special for gatherings.
Tomato Burst: Layer marinara sauce beneath the stuffed shells before adding the garlic Alfredo sauce. This gives a rich, tangy contrast to the creamy filling. Think of it as a new comfort combo!
Nut Free: Replace all dairy ingredients with nut-based alternatives, like cashew cream for the sauce and nut cheese for the filling, ideal for those with allergies. It adds a wonderfully creamy texture to the dish, making it inclusive for all eaters.
Baked with Toppings: Adding a crunchy topping of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before baking creates an irresistibly crispy layer. Pair this with a simple Caesar salad for a delightful contrast!

Explore these variations and let your kitchen creativity take flight, just as I do when making beloved classics like Stuffed Bell Peppers or Baked Broccoli Cheese.

What to Serve with Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Indulging in a warm plate of creamy pasta fills the heart and enhances the meal experience beyond just the dish itself.

Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy and infused with garlic herb butter, this classic side adds a comforting crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Light Caesar Salad: The crisp, fresh greens and zesty dressing help cut through the richness of the stuffed shells, balancing the meal. Toss in some crunchy croutons for added texture!
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and vibrant, the slight bitterness complements the cheese-stuffed delight, while offering a nutritious counterbalance. Sprinkle with lemon zest for an extra kick.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet, blistered gems bring a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall flavor of each bite while providing a pop of color to the plate.
Wine Pairing (Chardonnay): A glass of chilled Chardonnay, with its fruity undertones and buttery profile, perfectly accompanies the richness of the stuffed shells and enhances the dining experience.
Tiramisu: End your meal on an indulgent note with this classic Italian dessert. Its coffee and cocoa flavors offer a delightful contrast to the cheesy main course, leaving everyone satisfied.

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta shells should I use for stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Jumbo pasta shells are the ideal choice for this recipe as they provide the perfect size and structure to hold the cheesy filling. Look for shells labeled as “jumbo” or “large” at your grocery store to ensure they’re spacious enough for your creamy mix.

How do I store leftover Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure you let the stuffed shells cool down to room temperature before sealing them, as this helps to maintain their texture and prevents condensation from making them soggy.

Can I freeze Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells?
Definitely! To freeze, assemble the stuffed shells but do not bake them yet. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if they’re still cool from the fridge.

What if my stuffed shells break while cooking?
No worries at all! If you find your pasta shells breaking, it often means they were overcooked. To prevent this, ensure you cook them only for 2 minutes less than the package instructions for al dente. If they do break, simply use the pieces as a delicious crispy topping on your baked dish—waste not, want not! Just sprinkle broken shell pieces over the top before baking.

Can I modify the cheese filling for dietary preferences?
Certainly! If you’re making these Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells for someone with dietary restrictions or preferences, you can easily modify the cheese used. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan ricotta or a nut-based cheese, and be sure to check that your other ingredients, like the sauce, are also dairy-free. You can even add in some spinach or cooked ground meat for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I reheat my Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells after freezing?
Reheating is a breeze! Thaw the frozen shells overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover your dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re heated through. For a bubbly top, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking. Enjoy your delicious creation again!