Classic Baked Stuffed Shells

Classic Baked Stuffed Shells recipe videos

Classic Baked Stuffed Shells are a beloved Italian-American comfort food featuring large pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, then baked in marinara sauce until bubbly. The dish typically combines ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses with herbs like basil and parsley, all nestled in a savory tomato sauce. It's a staple of family-style Italian cooking, often served at gatherings and holidays.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in both protein and fat due to its generous cheese filling, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the pasta. A single serving provides a good source of calcium, protein, and B vitamins, and typically contains around 400-500 calories.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	450 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbs	38 g
Fat	24 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	6 g
Sodium	680 mg
Calcium	350 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Potassium	420 mg
Vitamin A	450 IU
Vitamin C	8 mg
Vitamin B12	1.2 mcg
Phosphorus	280 mg
Zinc	2.5 mg

Per 3 large shells (approx. 240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, stuffed shells represent the hearty, communal spirit of Italian-American cuisine, where pasta dishes are designed to feed a crowd. Nutritionally, the combination of dairy and tomato sauce creates a complete protein and enhances iron absorption from the tomatoes.