Who doesn’t love the rich, cheesy flavors of classic stuffed shells? But let’s be honest—stuffing pasta shells can be a time-consuming process. That’s where this Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake comes to the rescue! This dish captures all the creamy, saucy, and cheesy goodness you love about stuffed shells but with a fraction of the effort.
Imagine tender pasta shells coated in a savory meat sauce, mixed with a rich ricotta and mozzarella blend, and baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s a warm and hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or any time you’re craving comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Not only is this dish easy to make, but it’s also endlessly versatile. You can add spinach for a nutritious boost, swap the meat for a vegetarian option, or even spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes. Pair it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete dinner that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.
Scroll down for the full recipe and see how quickly you can whip up this delicious Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation!
Why You’ll Love Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves Italian comfort food but doesn’t have the time (or patience) to make traditional stuffed shells. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it ideal for home cooks of any skill level. The unstuffed approach keeps things quick and easy without sacrificing the delicious taste and creamy texture we all love.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Time-Saving: No more fiddling with filling individual shells. Just mix everything together and bake!
- Customizable: Make it your own with your favorite ingredients—add veggies, swap the meat, or experiment with different cheeses.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the bake ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooked pasta will soak up the sauce as it bakes, giving you the perfect texture.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese Mix: The ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan blend creates a creamy and decadent layer that’s absolutely essential.
- Fresh Herbs Are Key: Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
Perfect Pairings
To round out your meal, consider pairing your Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake with:
- A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
- Warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up every drop of sauce.
- A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, for the perfect Italian-inspired dinner.
Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake Recipe
This Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake is a comforting, cheesy, and delicious dish that captures the flavors of stuffed shells without the hassle of stuffing. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, delivering all the creamy, saucy goodness you crave with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage (or ground beef or turkey)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for extra texture)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added nutrition)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease if necessary. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If using spinach, add it to the skillet and cook until wilted. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes. - Mix the Cheeses:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. - Assemble the Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta shells, meat sauce, and cheese mixture. Stir gently until everything is well coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese. - Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve:
Let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Substitute ground meat with plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
- Use low-fat ricotta and mozzarella if you’re looking for a lighter option.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
