Busy evenings just got tastier! If you love the creamy goodness of stuffed shells but don’t have the time to make them, this Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake is the perfect solution. It’s everything you crave—ooey, gooey cheese, savory marinara, hearty pasta—all simplified into a meal your whole family will devour.
This dish is ideal for pasta lovers, comfort food enthusiasts, and families looking for a wholesome, satisfying dinner that’s quick and easy to prepare. Follow along, and learn how to whip up this irresistible bake!
Why You'll Want to Make Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake Tonight
Stuffed shells are delicious, but they’re also time-intensive (all that stuffing, boiling, and prepping can feel daunting). The unstuffed version, however, is all the flavor with none of the fuss. Here’s why it’s a win-win for your kitchen table:
- Time-Saving: Perfect for busy weeknights—prep takes just 15 minutes!
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Simplified Comfort Food: All the hearty, cheesy goodness minus the hassle.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite meats, veggies, or herbs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it early in the day and bake when you’re ready!
Now, it’s time to get cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we start, gather these simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients:
For the Pasta Bake
- 16 oz (1 box) medium shell pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional, for a meaty bake)
- 1 jar marinara sauce (approx. 24 oz)
- 16 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Additional Toppings (Optional):
- Fresh basil leaves
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- More cheese (because there’s no such thing as too much cheese!)
Got those ready? Perfect—now, let's break it down step by step.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
Prepare your shell pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it just shy of al dente—it’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Meat (Optional)
If you’re adding protein, cook ground beef or Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble it as you cook, and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Once browned, drain excess fat and set aside.
3. Mix the Cheese Filling
Grab a bowl, and stir together the ricotta, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This rich and creamy mixture will make your bake utterly irresistible!
4. Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom.
- Add half of the cooked pasta shells on top.
- Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Layer with your cooked meat (if using).
- Pour more marinara sauce over the top, ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese to lock in the layers.
- Add the remaining pasta shells, more marinara, and finish with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes to melt and slightly brown the cheese on top.
6. Serve and Savor
Remove your pasta bake from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh basil, a bit of extra Parmesan, or some crushed red pepper flakes for a finishing touch.
Serve it up, and watch as your family dives in for seconds (or thirds)!
Tips to Make it Your Own
Want to put a personal spin on this dish? Here are some ideas to customize your bake to match your tastes perfectly:
- Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to sneak in some greens.
- Go Meaty: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Spice It Up: Stir in red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce.
- Cheese Swap: Try mixing in fontina or gouda for an extra indulgent flavor.
This pasta bake is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand!
Why Families Love This Recipe
Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake isn’t just a dish; it’s a moment. A bubbling casserole dish pulled fresh from the oven instantly makes mealtime feel like an event.
It’s cozy. It’s indulgent. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together at the table—laughing, lingering, and savoring every cheesy bite.
Best of all? You don’t need to be a culinary expert to pull it off. You only need basic ingredients, an oven, and a little enthusiasm for carbs and cheese (which we know you have).
Bake, Enjoy, and Repeat!
Congratulations—you’ve just mastered a dish that will likely become a staple in your weekly rotation. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or even as part of a casual dinner party, Unstuffed Shells Pasta Bake is guaranteed to impress.
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