Name: Comforting Christmas Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 (12 ounce) box jumbo pasta shells; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Crispy, bubbly mozzarella, tender pasta shells, and a rich, creamy filling combine to create a symphony of textures and flavors in this baked pasta dish. The secret lies in the balance: the tangy marinara sauce cuts through the richness of the ricotta, while the Parmesan and fresh basil add a savory, aromatic depth. This Comforting Christmas Stuffed Shells recipe is more than just a main course; it’s an experience.

This impressive dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a crowd-pleasing meal. It’s particularly well-suited for Christmas dinner, offering a welcome alternative to traditional roasts. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, freeing you up to enjoy the festivities.

Why you’ll love this Comforting Christmas Stuffed Shells

This is true comfort food! The cheesy filling and tender pasta are a perfect match.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.
Make ahead convenience makes this a stress-free dish for entertaining.
The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and basil creates a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful filling.
These Christmas stuffed shells are easily customizable – add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Using ground chicken keeps the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients for Comforting Christmas Stuffed Shells

1 (12 ounce) box jumbo pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make your own.
15 ounces ricotta cheese: Whole milk ricotta will provide a richer flavor, but part-skim works too.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Fresh basil is key for that vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried basil.
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Use low-moisture mozzarella for the best melting and browning.
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

How to make Comforting Christmas Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the pasta

Christmas stuffed shells makes every moment feel comforting. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Sauté aromatics

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Make the ricotta filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Step 5: Stuff the shells

Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell. Arrange stuffed shells in a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and the shells are heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy these Christmas Stuffed Shells!

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the pasta shells! They should be al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Drain the cooked chicken thoroughly to prevent a watery sauce.
For even cooking, make sure the stuffed shells are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish.
Let the shells cool slightly before stuffing so you don’t burn your fingers!

Serving Suggestions

These Christmas Stuffed Shells pair perfectly with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for dipping in the marinara sauce. For a refreshing beverage, try serving them with lemonade or iced tea. You might also consider a dessert like Key Lime Pound Cake to round out the meal. You can also try pairing it with a warm loaf from Fork Haven.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions. To freeze, wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
Yes, these stuffed shells freeze very well. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute other cheeses for ricotta, such as cottage cheese or mascarpone. However, ricotta provides the best texture and flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms would be delicious additions to the ricotta filling.

These Comforting Christmas Stuffed Shells are a truly special dish, perfect for bringing joy and warmth to your holiday table. The combination of creamy ricotta, savory chicken, and tangy marinara is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the fillings and seasonings to make it your own. Let me know in the comments how your Christmas stuffed shells turned out!

Best Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe For A Festive Holiday