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Herb & Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Herb & Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells


  • Author: Jam Scott
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Herb & Zucchini Stuffed Jumbo Shells are a garden-fresh twist on the classic Italian favorite. Stuffed with creamy ricotta, sautéd zucchini, and fragrant herbs, they’re baked in a rich marinara sauce until bubbly and golden. Comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep win.


Ingredients

12 jumbo pasta shells

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium zucchini, grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 egg

2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil

1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme

1 1/2 cups marinara sauce

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add grated zucchini and sauté until most moisture evaporates. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Let cool slightly.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, sautéd zucchini, garlic, herbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

4. Fill each pasta shell generously with the ricotta-zucchini mixture.

5. Spread half of the marinara sauce in a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and top with remaining sauce.

6. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.

7. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for 10 more minutes until golden and bubbly.

8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente—overcooked shells will fall apart when stuffing.

You can assemble the entire dish ahead and refrigerate until baking.

If you’re adding protein, try shredded rotisserie chicken or Italian sausage for variation.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 stuffed shells
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 610mg
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: stuffed shells, zucchini pasta, vegetarian pasta