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A single sausage stuffed shell on a white plate, cut open to show the creamy ricotta and sausage filling inside, garnished with fresh parsley.

Sausage Stuffed Shells (The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe)

An incredibly delicious and cheesy Sausage Stuffed Shells recipe. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory mix of Italian sausage, ricotta, and mozzarella, then baked in marinara sauce for the ultimate comfort food meal.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 lb mild or hot Italian sausage casings removed
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 24 oz marinara sauce your favorite brand

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Large Pot

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain any excess fat.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, the beaten egg, and chopped parsley until well combined.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Fill each cooked shell with the sausage and cheese mixture and arrange them in the dish.
  5. Top the shells with the remaining marinara sauce and the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Tip 1: Don't overcook the pasta shells initially, as they will soften further during baking.
Tip 2: For an even richer flavor, add a cup of sautéed spinach to the cheese and sausage filling.