Sunday Veggie Stuffed Shells

Name: Sunday Veggie Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup zucchini, diced; 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp dried basil

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love making Sunday Veggie Stuffed Shells for my family. It's a cozy dish that brings everyone together, and I can pack it with fresh, seasonal vegetables. There's something about the combination of ricotta and spinach that just warms the heart. The large pasta shells are perfect for stuffing, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while baking. Plus, it's an easy make-ahead meal that reheats well, making it ideal for a busy weeknight or a leisurely Sunday gathering!

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:42:35.198Z

When I first experimented with stuffed pasta shells, I was amazed at how each bite could be a burst of flavor and comfort. The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, spinach, and a variety of my favorite veggies elevates this dish to another level. Each shell is like a small treasure, filled with creamy goodness and infused with herbs from my garden. I find that roasting some of the vegetables before adding them enhances their sweetness, creating a beautiful balance of flavors.

My family always insists on a homemade marinara sauce, which is easy to whip up and just makes everything taste even fresher. After baking, the dish is golden and bubbly, and the aroma fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist. Trust me, serve these on a Sunday, and you’ll have a meal everyone will remember!

        Why You'll Love These Stuffed Shells
        Bursting with fresh veggie flavors that feel wholesome and satisfying.
Creamy ricotta filling that makes each bite decadent.
Perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for later enjoyment.

      

Ingredient Breakdown

In this recipe, the ricotta cheese plays a pivotal role in creating that creamy, luxurious texture that complements the other ingredients. The moisture from the ricotta helps keep the stuffing from drying out during baking, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using part-skim ricotta or blending in some cottage cheese for a similar texture with fewer calories.

The vegetables not only add vibrant color but also boost the nutritional profile of the dish. Spinach, with its earthy flavor, pairs beautifully with the ricotta, while zucchini and bell pepper lend a crunch that contrasts with the soft pasta shells. Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as mushrooms or roasted eggplant, for a unique twist!

Assembly Tips

When stuffing the pasta shells, it's important to ensure each shell is filled generously but not overstuffed – about a heaping tablespoon per shell usually works well. This prevents spillage during baking and helps the flavors meld together without creating a mess. A small offset spatula or the back of a spoon can help you pack the filling in neatly and evenly.

As you assemble the dish, consider layering some spinach or herbs beneath the stuffed shells for added flavor and presentation. This not only enhances the dish visually but also makes for a delightful surprise when it comes to serving. Additionally, if you're a fan of heat, sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes atop the marinara sauce before baking can elevate the flavor profile dramatically.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Sunday Veggie Stuffed Shells

Stuffed Shells

12 large pasta shells
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup spinach, chopped
1/2 cup zucchini, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Marinara Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried basil

Instructions

Instructions for Sunday Veggie Stuffed Shells

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, spinach, zucchini, bell pepper, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Stuff the Shells

Carefully stuff each cooked shell with the ricotta vegetable mixture using a spoon.

Assemble the Dish

Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top and cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the leftover mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!

Pro Tips

For an additional flavor boost, try adding some fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the ricotta filling. If you're short on time, you can use pre-chopped vegetables or even frozen spinach.

Make-Ahead and Storing

These stuffed shells can be prepared in advance, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to enjoy, simply increase your baking time by about 10 minutes to ensure they're heated through.

If you're looking to store leftovers, packed stuffed shells can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, assemble and store the dish in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, bake directly from frozen for about 60 minutes, covering with foil for the first half to help prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve these veggie stuffed shells alongside a fresh garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity in the dressing can help cut through the richness of the cheese filling. You can also offer garlic bread on the side for a touch of comfort and indulgence that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce.

For a little extra flair, consider garnishing the baked dish with fresh basil or parsley right before serving. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan can enhance the overall presentation and flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top can provide a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the shells.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shells and filling ahead of time. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

→ What vegetables can I use in the filling?

Feel free to use any vegetables you love such as mushrooms, kale, or carrots. Just make sure to chop them finely.

→ Can I freeze the leftover stuffed shells?

Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked or baked stuffed shells. Just make sure to use an airtight container and label them.

→ What can I serve with stuffed shells?

These stuffed shells pair well with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.