There’s something magical about gathering around a warm, comforting dish during the holidays. My Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe is all about that cozy, cheesy joy. These stuffed pasta shells are bursting with rich ricotta, savory spinach, and a touch of lemon zest to brighten every bite. Whether you’re planning a big family feast or looking for holiday dinner ideas for two, this festive recipe delivers. With its vibrant red marinara and green herbs, it’s a show-stopping Christmas-themed main dish that doubles perfectly as a holiday dinner entrée for any celebration.
The Story Behind My Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe
A Holiday Tradition Reinvented
Growing up, my mom always made baked pasta for Christmas Eve, but I wanted to give it a new twist. This Christmas stuffed shells recipe combines the comfort of lasagna with the elegance of a plated entrée. I remember that first Christmas I served them—my kitchen smelled like heaven, and my friends couldn’t stop talking about how festive they looked. The red marinara sauce, white ricotta filling, and green spinach made every plate look like a holiday postcard.
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Christmas Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Total Time: 45-70 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive and comforting holiday dinner dish made with ricotta-stuffed pasta shells baked in marinara sauce.
Ingredients
18–20 jumbo pasta shells
5 oz fresh spinach
2 cups ricotta cheese
1/4 cup pecorino cheese
2 grated garlic cloves
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp lemon zest
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
3/4 tsp sea salt
Black pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Boil pasta shells until al dente, drain and set aside.
2. Sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted.
3. Combine spinach, ricotta, pecorino, garlic, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture.
5. Spread marinara in a baking dish and arrange stuffed shells.
6. Top with sauce and sprinkle cheese.
7. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
8. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
You can make this dish ahead and refrigerate for up to two days.
Perfect for holiday dinners or festive gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15-30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Why It’s Perfect for Holiday Gatherings
What makes this recipe stand out is its balance of flavor and presentation. These shells are ideal for a girls’ Christmas dinner or even a cozy Christmas dinner for one. You can prepare everything in advance, then pop it in the oven when guests arrive. The bubbly cheese, the golden top—it’s the kind of festive food for Christmas that brings everyone together.
Ingredients That Make Magic Happen
Festive Ingredients Table
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need to make this holiday dinner entrée unforgettable.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jumbo pasta shells | 18–20 |
| Fresh spinach | 5 ounces |
| Ricotta cheese | 2 cups |
| Pecorino cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic cloves, grated | 2 |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups |
Flavor Tips for Perfection
Drizzle olive oil over your shells before baking to prevent them from drying out. The Christmas stuffed shells filling gets its signature taste from lemon zest and a hint of red pepper flakes—these tiny additions make a huge impact. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra pecorino before baking for that golden, bubbly finish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparing the Filling
Start by sautéing spinach in olive oil until just wilted, then mix it into ricotta cheese with grated garlic, pecorino, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. This creamy mixture forms the heart of the Christmas stuffed shells recipe.
Assembling the Shells
Boil the pasta shells until al dente. Fill each one generously with the ricotta-spinach mixture. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce, then arrange the stuffed shells neatly. Cover with the remaining sauce and a sprinkle of cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes, until bubbly and slightly crisp at the edges.
Serving Your Holiday Dinner
Plating With Style
Once baked, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. Each plate of Christmas stuffed shells looks like a holiday gift—bright red, creamy white, and flecked with festive green. Serve it with a side salad and a glass of red wine for a complete holiday dinner idea for two.
Perfect Pairings for the Season
These shells pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or garlic bread. They’re also one of the best dishes to make for New Year’s if you’re craving something indulgent yet comforting.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Time-Saving Prep
You can assemble your Christmas stuffed shells recipe up to two days in advance. Store covered in the fridge, then bake just before serving. It’s a lifesaver for busy holiday schedules.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture. This dish even freezes well—perfect for a quick Christmas dinner for one later in the season.
FAQ Section
Can I make these Christmas stuffed shells vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is completely vegetarian and full of rich, savory flavors.
What’s the best sauce for Christmas stuffed shells?
A classic marinara works best, but roasted red pepper sauce adds a beautiful depth.
Can I substitute ricotta cheese?
A: You can use cottage cheese or a blend of mascarpone for a creamier filling.
Are these good for a potluck or party?
A: Absolutely! They’re easy to transport, reheat well, and make a stunning Christmas-themed main dish.
Conclusion
This Christmas stuffed shells recipe brings holiday comfort and elegance to your table. Whether you’re hosting friends, planning girls’ Christmas dinner ideas, or creating a romantic holiday dinner for two, this dish always shines. Its vibrant colors, creamy texture, and festive flavor make it a seasonal favorite that your guests will remember long after the holidays.
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