Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Shells

If you’re searching for a comforting, cheesy, and veggie-packed dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, these Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Shells are about to become your new favorite. Jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a luscious mixture of ricotta, cheddar, parmesan, and tender broccoli, all baked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella—this dish is pure magic. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even impressing guests with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens without skimping on flavor.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish where every bite delivers a blend of creamy cheese, savory spices, and tender veggies wrapped in pasta. These Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Shells hit all the right notes:

– Kid-friendly and adult-approved: The mild flavors and cheesy filling appeal to all ages, making it a perfect family dinner.
– Comfort food vibes: It’s like a casserole and pasta dish rolled into one, warming and filling.
– Vegetables made delicious: Broccoli shines here, softened and blended with cheese, so it’s anything but boring.
– Make-ahead potential: Prepare in advance, then bake when ready for a stress-free dinner.
– Customizable: Swap in your favorite cheeses or add herbs and spices to suit your taste.

If you love dishes like Crispy Cheddar Chicken Bake, you’ll find these shells just as irresistible with their cheesy goodness and cozy feel.

Ingredient Rundown

• 12 jumbo pasta shells: The perfect size to hold a generous amount of filling without breaking apart.
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped: Fresh or frozen works; they add texture, color, and nutrients.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy base that binds the filling together.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharpness and bold flavor that complements the broccoli.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth to the filling.
• 1 egg, beaten: Helps the filling set and hold its shape during baking.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For subtle savory warmth.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild onion flavor without overpowering.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to add a gentle kick.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred or homemade tomato sauce for moisture and tang.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible golden crust.

Recommended Tools

• Large pot: For boiling the jumbo shells to al dente perfection.
• Colander: To drain pasta shells without breaking them.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: To chop broccoli evenly.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch): The perfect size for arranging and baking the stuffed shells.
• Spoon or small spatula: To stuff each shell neatly.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the dish while baking to prevent over-browning.

Build Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Shells Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Be gentle when stirring to avoid breaking the shells. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Set aside on a lightly oiled plate.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the chopped florets until just tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess water. Chop finely to ensure the filling is smooth and easy to stuff.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the chopped broccoli until everything is well incorporated. The egg helps bind the mixture while baking, giving you perfectly set filling.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Lay the cooked jumbo shells flat and spoon generous amounts of the cheese and broccoli filling into each shell. Don’t overfill, but ensure each shell is nicely packed.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the shells, making sure they’re well covered to keep them moist while baking.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the sauced shells. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese bubble and turn golden.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the shells cool slightly before serving. These Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Shells pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread. For a twist, try serving alongside Spinach Artichoke Dip as a starter for a full comforting meal.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

• Dairy-free cheese: Use plant-based ricotta, cheddar, and mozzarella alternatives to accommodate lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
• Gluten-free pasta shells: Substitute with gluten-free jumbo shells for those avoiding gluten.
• Egg substitute: Use flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to bind the filling if avoiding eggs.
• Low-sodium marinara: Opt for a reduced-sodium tomato sauce for a heart-healthier version.

Notes on Ingredients

• Broccoli: Using fresh broccoli provides a nicer texture, but frozen works well in a pinch and is more convenient.
• Cheeses: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but you can adjust to milder or stronger cheeses based on preference.
• Ricotta: Look for whole-milk ricotta for creamier filling; part-skim is fine for a lighter dish.
• Marinara sauce: Homemade or store-bought both work. Choose a sauce with simple, quality ingredients for best taste.

Best Ways to Store

After baking, allow the shells to cool completely. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through.

You can also freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake covered at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, uncovering the last 10 minutes to melt the cheese on top.

Common Questions

Can I prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This makes weeknight dinners super easy.

What type of broccoli works best?

Fresh broccoli florets are ideal because they retain a nice texture and flavor after baking. However, frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative—just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Yes! Feel free to mix in finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just sauté any raw vegetables first to remove excess water and soften them before combining with the cheese mixture.

How do I prevent the shells from breaking?

Cook the pasta shells just until al dente and handle them gently when stuffing. Rinsing them with cold water after boiling helps stop the cooking process and keeps them from sticking together or tearing.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Good Ole Fashioned Mac And Cheese – If you love cheesy pasta dishes, this classic recipe is a must-try.
• Spinach Artichoke Dip – Perfect as an appetizer or snack alongside your stuffed shells.
• Crispy Cheddar Chicken Bake – Another cheesy favorite that pairs well with pasta or salads for dinner.

Before You Go

These Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Shells are more than just a meal—they’re a celebration of comfort food that’s simple to make and sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this dish delivers cheesy, veggie-packed goodness in every bite. Don’t forget to customize the filling with your favorite herbs or extra veggies, and serve it with a crisp salad or warm garlic bread for a full, satisfying dinner.

Make sure to bookmark this recipe and come back whenever you crave that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and fresh flavors wrapped in pasta. Enjoy every bite!

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