Lazy Day Crockpot Stuffed Shells Recipe: Cheesy Italian Comfort

Melty cheese and rich flavors make these crockpot stuffed shells a weeknight savior for busy cooks.

Pasta shells nestle perfectly in slow-cooker magic, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug.

Ricotta and spinach mingle inside delicate pasta pockets, promising incredible depth with minimal effort.

Hearty ingredients combine effortlessly, turning simple components into something spectacular.

Comfort food doesn’t get easier or more satisfying than this creamy, indulgent meal.

Soft pasta shells cradle a blend of delicious cheeses that melt into pure deliciousness.

Let’s transform your dinner into a memorable, stress-free experience that everyone will adore.

Ingredients for Crockpot Stuffed Shells

• Pasta Shells: Large shells perfect for stuffing with cheese mixture.

• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy base for the shell stuffing.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Provides melty, stretchy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds rich, sharp flavor to the dish.
• Egg: Helps bind the cheese mixture together.
• Parsley: Fresh herb for added flavor and color.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Enhances overall seasoning.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings traditional Italian herb blend.
• Salt, Pepper: Fundamental seasonings for balanced taste.

• Marinara Sauce: Classic tomato-based sauce for classic Italian flavor.
• Water: Helps create moisture in the crockpot cooking process.

How to Prepare and Cook Stuffed Shells in the Crockpot

Step 1: Boil Pasta Shells Perfectly

Cook pasta shells in a large pot of salted water, removing them 1-2 minutes before the package instructions suggest.

Drain and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Creamy Cheese Mixture

• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Fresh parsley
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth.

Step 3: Stuff Shells with Cheesy Goodness

Carefully fill each cooled pasta shell with the cheese mixture.

Use a piping bag for neat filling or a spoon for a more rustic approach.

Fill shells about three-quarters full to prevent overflow during cooking.

Step 4: Layer in Crockpot

Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of the slow cooker.

Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer.

Pour remaining marinara sauce and water over the shells, ensuring they’re well-coated.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW setting for 3-4 hours.

Resist the temptation to lift the lid frequently, as this releases heat and extends cooking time.

Step 6: Add Final Cheese Topping

• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese

Cover and let the cheese melt into a golden, bubbly layer.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove stuffed shells using tongs or a slotted spoon.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil.

Serve piping hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight.

Pro Tips for Cheesy, Saucy Stuffed Shells

• Slightly undercook shells to prevent mushiness during slow cooking, ensuring a tender yet firm texture when served.
• Drain ricotta cheese in a cheesecloth for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture, creating a creamier and more concentrated filling.
• Avoid overcrowding shells by arranging them in a single layer with small gaps, allowing sauce to circulate and cook evenly.
• Add a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for an extra layer of complexity and warmth.
• Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option, or use gluten-free shells to make the dish celiac-friendly.

Store and Reheat Crockpot Stuffed Shells Easily

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual portions or entire dish tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 3 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place shells on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring gently between each, until thoroughly warmed.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer shells to baking dish. Add splash of water or extra marinara sauce to prevent drying. Cover with foil. Warm for 15-20 minutes, removing foil last 5 minutes for cheese to crisp.

Side Dishes for Crockpot Stuffed Shells

• Pair Wine to Enhance Flavors: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich, cheesy pasta and cut through the tomato sauce's acidity.
• Craft Side Salad Harmony: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved Parmesan to provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the heavy, creamy stuffed shells.
• Serve Crusty Garlic Bread: Prepare warm, buttery garlic bread with crispy edges to soak up extra marinara sauce and add delightful textural crunch to the meal.
• Match Herbal Beverage Pairing: Brew fresh basil iced tea or sparkling water with fresh basil sprigs to refresh the palate between bites of the rich, cheesy dish.

Stuffed Shell Variations You’ll Want to Try

• Gluten-Free Shell Option: Replace traditional pasta shells with gluten-free pasta shells or zucchini boats for a low-carb alternative that maintains the delicious cheesy filling.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute ricotta with tofu or cashew cheese, use dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives, and replace the egg with ground flaxseed to create a plant-based version of the dish.
• Protein-Packed Variation: Add cooked ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles to the cheese mixture for extra protein and a heartier meal that keeps you satisfied longer.
• Vegetable Boost Option: Mix finely chopped spinach, kale, or roasted bell peppers into the cheese filling to increase nutritional value and add vibrant flavors to the classic stuffed shells recipe.

FAQs

• Can I prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the shells a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, place them directly in the crockpot and follow the recipe instructions.

• What if I don't have a piping bag for filling shells?

No problem! Use a small spoon to carefully fill each shell with the cheese mixture. A small measuring spoon or even a teaspoon works great for precise filling.

• Is it necessary to partially cook the pasta shells before stuffing?

Absolutely. Cooking the shells 1-2 minutes less than package directions prevents them from becoming too soft during the slow cooking process and helps maintain their shape and texture.

• Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

While the recipe calls for mozzarella and Parmesan, you can experiment with other melting cheeses like provolone or fontina. Just keep the overall quantity similar to maintain the right consistency.

Why Crockpot Stuffed Shells Are So Comforting

• Crockpot eliminates complex cooking steps, making meal preparation stress-free and effortless for busy families.
• Slow cooker does all the work while you handle other tasks, providing a convenient and hands-free meal preparation experience.
• Cheesy stuffed shells deliver rich, satisfying flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
• Adaptable recipe allows simple ingredient swaps like adding ground meat, switching cheese types, or incorporating different herbs to match personal preferences.

Crockpot Stuffed Shells Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Crockpot stuffed shells bring Italian-inspired comfort straight to your dinner table with minimal effort. Ricotta, spinach, and melted mozzarella create a satisfying meal that wraps you in warmth and deliciousness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

Pasta:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells

Cheese:

• 1.5 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cups grated parmesan cheese

Filling and Seasoning:

• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped) or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon italian seasoning
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce and Topping:

• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 0.5 cups water or vegetable broth
• 0.25 cups grated parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta shells by boiling in salted water for slightly less time than package instructions, ensuring they remain slightly firm. Drain and rinse with cold water to halt cooking process.
2. Create a rich cheese mixture by blending ricotta with mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and aromatic seasonings like parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
3. Carefully fill each cooled pasta shell with the cheese mixture, using a piping bag or spoon, ensuring shells are approximately three-quarters full for optimal texture.
4. Layer the crockpot base with marinara sauce, then arrange stuffed shells in a single, organized layer. Gently pour remaining marinara and water over the shells, creating a moist cooking environment.
5. Set crockpot to LOW temperature and cook for 3-4 hours, maintaining a sealed lid to preserve moisture and prevent heat escape.
6. During the final 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan over the shells, allowing cheese to melt and create a golden, bubbling surface.
7. Delicately transfer shells using tongs or a slotted spoon to serving plates. Enhance presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and serve immediately while warm and fragrant.

Notes

• Use slightly undercooked pasta shells to prevent mushiness during slow cooking, ensuring a perfect al dente texture when served.
• For gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta shells with gluten-free pasta shells and verify all sauce ingredients are gluten-free.
• Consider adding protein variety by mixing ground turkey or chicken into cheese filling for extra nutritional value and flavor complexity.
• Reduce moisture by draining ricotta cheese in cheesecloth for 15 minutes before mixing, preventing watery filling and maintaining a rich, creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg