Mediterranean-Inspired Stuffed Pasta Shells with Feta and Herbs

Stuffed pasta shells are a timeless comfort dish, beloved for their tender pasta and rich, cheesy filling. This Mediterranean-inspired version replaces the traditional mozzarella-heavy blend with a vibrant mix of ricotta, tangy feta, and fresh herbs. It’s a recipe that balances creamy textures with bright, aromatic flavors—perfect for spring and summer meals or whenever you want something hearty yet refreshing. If you’re new to cooking or looking to expand your weeknight dinner rotation, this is an approachable recipe with plenty of make-ahead potential. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, even beginners can enjoy a rewarding kitchen experience with restaurant-level results.

Ingredients and Preparation

1. Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• Two 28-ounce cans chopped tomatoes, with juices
• 1 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

2. Filling Ingredients

• Two 15-ounce containers ricotta cheese
• 14 ounces crumbled feta cheese (divided: 1⅓ cups for filling, rest for topping)
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 bunches fresh chives, chopped
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper, to taste

3. Pasta

• 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells

Preparation Notes

• You will need two 13×9-inch baking dishes.
• The sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
• Cook the pasta until al dente to prevent it from tearing while filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

• In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
• Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
• Add the canned chopped tomatoes with their juices. Bring to a simmer.
• Let the sauce cook uncovered for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until thickened to about 5 cups.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Stir in 1 cup of chopped fresh basil at the end. Set aside.

2. Make the Cheese and Herb Filling

• In a large bowl, combine:
  • 2 containers of ricotta cheese
  • 1⅓ cups crumbled feta cheese
  • ½ cup chopped fresh basil
  • 2 bunches chopped chives
• Add salt and pepper to taste, but be cautious with the salt since feta is already salty.
• Crack in the 2 eggs and mix thoroughly to create a creamy, herby filling.

3. Cook the Pasta Shells

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the 12 ounces of jumbo shells and cook until just tender (al dente), usually 9–11 minutes.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
• Lay shells out on a clean towel or lightly oiled tray to prevent sticking.

4. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

5. Assemble the Pasta Shells

• Spread ¾ cup of the prepared sauce over the bottom of each 13×9-inch baking dish.
• Fill each shell with a generous spoonful of the cheese and herb mixture.
• Place filled shells open-side up in the baking dishes.
• Spoon the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
• Sprinkle the remaining feta cheese over the top of the sauce for added tang and texture.

6. Bake the Dish

• Cover both dishes tightly with aluminum foil.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes.
• Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to lightly brown.
• Let the shells rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Beginner Tips and Notes

1. Ingredient Substitutions

• You can use low-fat ricotta if desired, but full-fat provides better texture.
• If you don’t have chives, try green onions or parsley for a similar mild herb flavor.
• Replace feta with goat cheese for a smoother, tangier filling.

2. Pasta Handling Tips

• Don’t overcook the shells—they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Rinsing the pasta helps make it easier to handle and stuff.
• Lightly oiling your fingers can help when filling the shells without sticking.

3. Sauce Efficiency

• This sauce is easy to make ahead and tastes even better the next day.
• You can double the sauce and freeze the extra for future meals.

4. Storage and Freezing

• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
• To freeze: Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

5. Make It a Meal

• Serve with a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
• Pair with garlic bread or toasted baguette slices.
• A side of grilled chicken or beef meatballs can round out the protein.

Serving Suggestions

1. Main Course with a Fresh Side

• Serve the pasta shells with a crisp green salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon-herb dressing.
• Add a side of steamed green beans or roasted zucchini for a balanced plate.

2. Light Dinner for Entertaining

• Present in a large ceramic baking dish garnished with a few fresh basil leaves.
• Offer toasted rustic bread with a small dish of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.

3. Mediterranean Spread

• Include a spread of hummus, olives, and roasted red peppers on the side.
• Serve with grilled chicken skewers or beef kabobs for variety.

4. For Kids or Picky Eaters

• Use a milder cheese like shredded mozzarella mixed with ricotta.
• Blend the sauce smooth if they don’t like tomato chunks.

5. Beverage Pairings

• Sparkling water with lemon or a glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors well.
• For a non-alcoholic option, try a citrus-infused iced tea.

Print

Engagement Features

1. Try a Twist

• Want to add protein? Stir in cooked ground chicken or beef to the filling.
• Craving spice? Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the cheese mixture.

2. Ask the Reader

• What herbs would you add to make it your own?
• Would you try swapping the tomato sauce for a roasted red pepper sauce?

3. Call to Action

• Save this recipe for your next family dinner night.
• Let us know how it turned out in the comments below—did you go classic or add your own twist?
• Share a photo of your stuffed shells on social media and tag your cooking inspiration.