Name: Stuffed Pasta Shells with Italian Sausage and Ricotta Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound Italian sausages (removed from casing); 3 cups Marinara sauce (homemade or high quality jarred); 2 1/2 cups ricotta cheese; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg yolk; 1 teaspoon Italian herbs and seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and Pepper to taste; 12 jumbo pasta shells (cooked); 2-3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 8 reviews

If you are craving a comforting and utterly satisfying Italian meal, this Stuffed Pasta Shells with Italian Sausage and Ricotta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a creamy, flavorful blend of ricotta cheese and savory Italian sausage, nestled in a luscious marinara sauce, then baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection. It’s the kind of dish that brings family and friends together around the table and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed shells hit the spot every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl in the center holds a mix of white ricotta cheese layered with a yellow raw egg yolk on the right, dried green herbs on top near the egg, light beige grated cheese on the left side, and a small mound of light brown powdering seasoning in the bottom right corner, all on a white marbled surface. To the left of this bowl is another smaller clear glass bowl containing several large, pale yellow pasta shells. Above that is a dark frying pan filled with browned cooked ground meat, and a soft pink cloth is draped nearby. To the right, there is a white rectangular dish filled with smooth bright red tomato sauce and a wooden board holding a portion of light yellow grated cheese alongside a metal grater. Two small white dishes hold salt and cracked black pepper near the top right. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find but essential to create that rich, authentic flavor and pleasing texture. Each component plays its role by adding depth, creaminess, and just the right amount of Italian flair to your dish.

Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness that helps brown the sausage beautifully.
Italian sausages: Provide a hearty, spiced meatiness that’s the star of the filling.
Marinara sauce: A vibrant tomato base that keeps everything moist and bursting with tomato goodness.
Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it balances the sausage with a luscious texture.
Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, sharp flavor to deepen the cheese mixture.
Egg yolk: Binds the filling together, ensuring it holds its shape inside the shells.
Italian herbs and seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds classic aromatic notes.
Garlic powder: Sprinkles in savory undertones without overpowering.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste, crucial for lifting the overall flavor.
Jumbo pasta shells: The perfect vessel—be gentle when cooking so they don’t break.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts gloriously on top, creating that irresistible golden crust.
Optional chopped parsley: For a fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the entire plate.

How to Make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Italian Sausage and Ricotta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Crumble the Italian sausage into the pan, cooking it until it’s browned through and releases those delicious spices and juices. This step is crucial because it forms the savory foundation of your filling.

Step 2: Prep Your Baking Dish

While the sausage cools slightly, spray your baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and spread a generous 1/3 of the marinara sauce on the bottom. This layer ensures the shells won’t stick and infuses the dish with tangy tomato flavor from the start.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage with ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg yolk, Italian herbs and seasoning, garlic powder, plus salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well blended. This filling is the heart of the stuffed shells, so make sure it’s well combined for even flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Carefully spoon about 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of the filling into each jumbo pasta shell. Handle the shells gently to keep them intact and arrange the stuffed shells snugly in the baking dish on top of the marinara sauce. This careful stuffing and placement will make your dish look as good as it tastes.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Once all shells are stuffed and nestled in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese to cover the shells. This cheese topping melts and browns into a mouthwatering crust that will make you eager to dig in.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish and bake the stuffed shells at 350°F for 25 minutes to warm everything through and meld the flavors. Then remove the cover and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes so the cheese gets golden and bubbly. Let the dish stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to set everything perfectly.

How to Serve Stuffed Pasta Shells with Italian Sausage and Ricotta Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish on a white marbled surface holds nine large pasta shells arranged in three rows. Each shell is stuffed with a creamy white ricotta mixture speckled with herbs and small bits of seasoning. A layer of smooth and bright red tomato sauce covers the bottom of the dish, with dollops on top of some shells. Thin strips of pale yellow shredded cheese are scattered over the shells and sauce. Around the dish, there is a white bowl filled with more shredded cheese, a small plate with ground black pepper, a block of cheese on a wooden board with a grater, and a jar of tomato sauce. A woman's hand rests near the bottom right corner on a soft blush pink cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy shells. If you want, a grating of extra Parmesan can deepen the savory notes just before serving.

Side Dishes

These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread soaking up every last bit of marinara sauce. For a heartier meal, roast some seasonal vegetables or steamed broccoli to add crunch and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve individual portions in small ramekins or create a family-style platter with a garnish of fresh basil leaves and extra shredded mozzarella tucked around the edges. You can even drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil right before serving for a beautiful finishing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stuffed Pasta Shells with Italian Sausage and Ricotta Recipe store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover your leftovers tightly with foil or plastic wrap to maintain moisture and flavor without drying out the shells.

Freezing

This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Before baking, place the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, just bake them covered and add a bit more time to ensure even heating.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the leftovers at 350°F covered, until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly, usually about 20 to 25 minutes. You can also gently microwave individual portions, but the oven reheating preserves the texture best.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and will still deliver plenty of flavor. Just be sure to season it well since it can be milder than traditional Italian sausage.

Do I need to precook the pasta shells?

Yes, jumbo pasta shells should be cooked according to the package instructions until al dente so they’re pliable enough to stuff without breaking during baking.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the Italian sausage with sautéed chopped mushrooms, spinach, or a plant-based sausage alternative to keep all the creamy, cheesy goodness without meat.

Is there a substitute for the egg yolk in the filling?

You can leave it out or use a tablespoon of plain yogurt or ricotta to help bind the filling. The egg yolk primarily helps the mixture hold together but isn’t absolutely necessary.

How can I make the sauce from scratch?

For a homemade marinara, simmer crushed tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, basil, oregano, salt, and a pinch of sugar. Let it cook gently for 30-40 minutes until thickened and rich in flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Pasta Shells with Italian Sausage and Ricotta Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s approachable for any cook yet impressive enough to bring smiles around your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to give it a try soon—once you taste how the creamy filling pairs with the savory sausage and tangy marinara, it’ll surely become a beloved staple in your kitchen.