Million Dollar Stuffed Shells – Cheesy Italian Comfort

Million Dollar Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food, filled with savory Italian sausage, creamy cheeses, and herbs, then baked in rich marinara. Perfect for family meals or special gatherings, this dish brings bold flavors and a cozy, indulgent feel to the dinner table.

Ingredients for this Million Dollar Stuffed Shells

• 12 oz jumbo shell macaroni (about 24–26 shells)
• 1 lb bulk Italian sausage
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
• 1 (16 oz) container cottage cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil (optional, for greasing)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
2. Boil the Shells:
   Cook jumbo shells in salted water until al dente (8–9 minutes). Rinse under cold water and set aside.
3. Make the Filling:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook Italian sausage until browned. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until soft, about 6 minutes. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper. Let cool slightly.
4. Combine the Cheese Mixture:
   In a bowl, mix cottage cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, parsley, and the sausage mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Shells:
   Spread 1 cup marinara in the baking dish. Stuff each shell with filling and arrange in the dish.
6. Top and Bake:
   Cover with remaining sauce and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Top with fresh parsley. These Million Dollar Stuffed Shells are best served hot and melty.

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 6

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 530
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Sugar: 6g

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy night in, these Million Dollar Stuffed Shells bring all the comfort and flavor you crave. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time!

Source: www.allrecipes.com