Olive Garden’s Jumbo Stuffed Shells are a beloved Italian-American comfort food. These oversized pasta shells are generously filled with a rich cheese mixture, baked in marinara sauce, and finished with a creamy Alfredo topping and toasted breadcrumbs. The result is a cheesy, savory, and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

16 jumbo pasta shells
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella/provolone cheese blend
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon minced garlic
15 oz marinara sauce
1/4 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon butter

For the Alfredo Sauce:

6 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon minced garlic
3/4 cup half and half
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella/provolone cheese blend

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Boil the jumbo shells until al dente, then drain and rinse under cool water.
In a bowl, mix the ricotta, mozzarella/provolone blend, Parmesan, basil, oregano, and garlic.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in a greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
Fill each shell with 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture and place in the dish.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet, add the breadcrumbs, and toast until golden brown.
In the same skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of butter, sauté garlic for 1 minute, whisk in half and half, and slowly stir in the cheeses until melted and creamy.
Once the shells are baked, remove foil, pour Alfredo sauce over them, drizzle extra marinara on top, sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.

Nutrients

(Per serving – approximately 4 stuffed shells)

Calories: 911 kcal
Carbohydrates: 74.3 g
Protein: 44.3 g
Fat: 49.3 g
Saturated Fat: 29.3 g
Cholesterol: 143 mg
Sodium: 1409 mg
Potassium: 615 mg
Fiber: 5.7 g
Sugar: 13.9 g
Calcium: 896 mg
Iron: 4 mg

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells: A Delectable Olive Garden Copycat Recipe

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are a beloved Italian-American dish that combines the heartiness of jumbo pasta shells with a rich blend of cheeses, savory marinara sauce, and a creamy Alfredo topping. This homemade version emulates the flavors of Olive Garden’s renowned stuffed shells, offering a comforting and indulgent meal for family and friends.

The Appeal of Olive Garden-Inspired Recipes

Olive Garden has earned a special place in the hearts of many for its comforting, familiar Italian-American dishes. Dishes like the Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells have become iconic, often evoking fond memories of family gatherings or celebratory dinners. Replicating these dishes at home allows you to enjoy the flavors you love without having to leave the house. Olive Garden-inspired recipes bring the restaurant experience to your kitchen, offering a way to recreate your favorite dishes with the added benefits of making them your own. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual dinner, these recipes offer a taste of indulgence that feels just as satisfying as dining out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Flavor: Experience the familiar taste of Olive Garden’s stuffed shells in the comfort of your home.
Impressive Presentation: The generous size of the stuffed shells makes for an eye-catching and satisfying dish.
Customizable Ingredients: Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Understanding the Components

Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large, ridged shells are perfect for holding the rich cheese filling. Their shape allows them to nestle comfortably in baking dishes, ensuring each bite is filled with flavor.

Cheese Filling: A harmonious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses forms the base of the stuffing. Ricotta provides a creamy texture, while mozzarella adds meltiness, and Parmesan imparts a sharp, nutty flavor.

Marinara Sauce: A zesty tomato-based sauce seasoned with herbs like oregano and basil. It serves as the flavorful foundation in the baking dish, complementing the richness of the cheese filling.

Alfredo Sauce: A velvety sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. It adds a luxurious creaminess to the dish, balancing the acidity of the marinara.

Breadcrumb Topping: Toasted breadcrumbs mixed with butter and seasonings provide a delightful crunch, offering a textural contrast to the soft pasta and creamy sauces.

Preparing the Dish

Cooking the Pasta: Boil the jumbo shells until al dente, ensuring they are firm enough to hold the filling without becoming mushy. After draining, rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking and to halt the cooking process.
Preparing the Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, an egg, and seasonings such as basil, oregano, and minced garlic. Mix until well-combined.
Assembling the Dish: Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them over the marinara layer. Pour additional marinara sauce over the shells, followed by a drizzle of Alfredo sauce.
Adding the Topping: Melt butter in a skillet, add breadcrumbs and seasonings, and toast until golden brown. Sprinkle this mixture over the assembled shells before baking.
Baking: Bake the dish until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are toasted. For an extra touch, broil for a few minutes to achieve a crispy top.

Variations and Tips

Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers into the cheese filling for added depth and nutrition.
Meat Lovers: For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or pepperoni to the cheese mixture.
Sauce Options: Adjust the ratio of marinara to Alfredo sauce based on personal preference. Some may prefer a saucier dish, while others might opt for a cheesier experience.
Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed before serving.
Freezing: The unbaked assembled shells can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells pair wonderfully with a variety of sides:

Salads: A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
Breads: Garlic breadsticks or a warm baguette are perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed green beans add a healthy and flavorful balance to the meal.

Conclusion

Recreating Olive Garden’s Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells at home is a rewarding endeavor that brings together familiar flavors in a comforting format. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy. With the flexibility to customize ingredients and the option to prepare ahead of time, it’s a practical choice for both special occasions and everyday meals.

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