Christmas Stuffed Shells are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season! This festive dish is filled with a creamy, cheesy ricotta mixture and baked in marinara sauce until golden and bubbly. As the aroma fills your kitchen, it’s hard to resist the comforting warmth of this dish. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday parties, these shells are sure to impress your guests with their rich flavors and beautiful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Stuffed Shells

There are so many reasons to adore this holiday stuffed shells recipe! First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy holiday schedules. The combination of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a cheesy delight that everyone will love. Plus, the festive presentation of the stuffed shells makes them a standout on any holiday table. Here are just a few more reasons:

Perfect for holiday gatherings with family and friends.
Can easily be made vegetarian, catering to various dietary preferences.
Freezes well, so you can prepare it ahead of time.
Offers a comforting taste of home during the holiday season.
Versatile; you can add ingredients like spinach or turkey for added flavor.
Pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread.

Ingredients for Christmas Stuffed Shells

Gather these items:

16 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups ricotta cheese
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon fresh basil (optional)

How to Make Christmas Stuffed Shells Step-by-Step

Step 1: Boil lasagna noodles until al dente, drain, and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: In a skillet, heat olive oil, add marinara sauce, oregano, and basil, and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Step 4: Spread a thin layer of sauce in a 9×13 dish, stuff each shell with the cheese mixture, and layer in the dish.
Step 5: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Let the lasagna rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Stuffed Shells

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for holiday gatherings.
Simple to make and crowd-pleasing.
Can be prepared ahead of time and baked before serving.
Add spinach or turkey to the filling for a twist on the classic.
Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Stuffed Shells

Serving ideas for this easy holiday stuffed shells recipe include:

Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
Serve alongside crusty garlic bread for an extra indulgent experience.

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Stuffed Shells

To store leftover Christmas stuffed pasta shells, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. This dish also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Stuffed Shells

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Stuffed Shells?

The secret lies in not overcooking the pasta shells. They should be al dente, making them easy to stuff and preventing them from falling apart. Additionally, using a balanced filling of cheeses and herbs enhances the flavor.

Can I make Christmas Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them before baking. This is a great option for holiday dinners, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Stuffed Shells?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your filling is well-seasoned and not overly wet. Also, don’t skip letting the dish rest after baking; this helps set the layers and flavors.

Variations of Christmas Stuffed Shells You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Use a blend of ricotta and cottage cheese for a lighter filling.
Make a vegetarian Christmas stuffed shells version by adding spinach or zucchini.
Incorporate festive ingredients like cranberries or walnuts for a unique twist.