What to Serve with Stuffed Shells: 25+ Easy to Prepare Side Dishes

Last updated on August 8th, 2024

Any idea what to serve with stuffed pasta shells? Don’t worry, and I’ve got you! These side dishes are ready and waiting to amp up your next main dish. Stuffed shells are a crowd pleaser, so the next time you plan to serve a stuffed shells dish, consider these easy-to-prepare sides to go along with it.

What are Stuffed Shells?

Stuffed shells are an Italian-inspired pasta dish that includes jumbo shells of pasta that have been stuffed with a variety of ingredients and baked with sauce and cheese in a casserole dish.

Spinach and creamy ricotta cheese are classic fillings for stuffed shells, but you can go for beef, sausage, or cheese fillings.

What Side Dishes Go Well With Stuffed Shells?

What could possibly make the most filling and delightful meal for everyone to enjoy? Allow these side dishes to provide a little inspiration.

Roasted Asparagus

What could be simpler than delicious roasted asparagus? It’s crispy and flavorful, making it the perfect accompaniment to any main dish.

So why not serve with spinach stuffed shells?

Simply drizzle your asparagus in some olive oil, sprinkle with salt and garlic, and roast them in the oven for 10 minutes and 400 degrees F. Finally, spray lemon juice or balsamic vinegar over the greens before serving.

Green Beans

Most vegetables taste great with stuffed shells, which is why we’re sticking to the green theme. Any green vegetable can make a tasty side dish and a healthy option, which is why you should add these to your list as well.

1. Place your green beans in a large skillet and cover with water, then bring it to a boil over medium-low heat and allow your beans to simmer and soften.
2. Add some butter to the skillet once the beans have been drained, and stir till they’ve melted.
3. Add some garlic and cook till fragrant.
4. Season with lemon-pepper seasonings and salt before serving.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are anyone’s favorite, and they pair wonderfully with just about any dish. So why not take advantage of their versatility and serve them alongside stuffed pasta shells?

You can add an aromatic essence to this side dish with some mashed garlic to make garlic mashed potatoes if you wish; they’ll taste impeccable with spinach stuffed shells, trust me!

To make these mashed potatoes:

1. Peel garlic cloves. In a small saucepan, bring the garlic and oil to a light simmer, then turn the heat down low. Cook uncovered for 5 minutes, or until the cloves have browned.
2. Place the potatoes into a large pot of boiling water and bring it to a boil, cooking for 15 to 20 minutes, til the potatoes are very tender.
3. Remove the potatoes from the water, and remove the garlic from the oil.
4. Place the potatoes and garlic in a food processor, then add the olive oil, salt, pepper, and cream cheese, and combine with a spoon.
5. Once the potatoes are nice and creamy, serve alongside stuffed pasta shells for the perfect side dish.

Baked Potatoes

Potatoes are always the safest side dish to opt for, especially when it comes to side dishes for stuffed pasta shells.

1. Wash your potatoes and cut them into cubes.
2. Soak in cold water, then preheat the oven till it’s very hot.
3. Add olive oil, seasonings, and herbs, then roast till tender.

Roasted Carrots

These sweet, savory, and crunchy gorgeous roasted carrots are the perfect addition to your main dish. They taste great with ricotta cheese.

Simply wash your carrots and season with salt and pepper before roasting them for 40 to 45 minutes at 400 degrees F.

Mashed Cauliflower

If you’re looking to cut carbs, then mashed cauliflower is the better alternative to mashed potatoes.

Grab cornstarch, sugar, salt, garlic powder, white pepper, and onion powder.

1. Cut a head of cauliflower into small pieces and steam over boiling water for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender. Then drain and plop into an ice bath to cool.
2. Add cauliflower and some water to a food processor and blend on high till smooth.
3. Pour the cauliflower into a medium saucepan, add the cornstarch mix, then add cream, salt, white pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder and whisk this together.
4. Add the cream and spices mixture to the cauliflower and stir.
5. Set the stove to medium heat and cook for 5 to 10 minutes until it achieves a thick consistency.

Zucchini Fries

When looking for the best side dishes for stuffed shells, always opt for the veggies cuz they bring forth deliciousness to every recipe!

Perhaps you’ve heard of zucchini fries, but have you served them at a party? This super nutritious snack is delightful when served with pasta dishes.

All you need are some zucchini, egg, almond meal or bread crumbs, salt, pepper, oregano, and hearty marinara sauce for dipping!

Cobb Salad

Cobb salad is a colorful, delicious, and healthy side dish to have alongside stuffed pasta shells.

Topped with chicken, bacon, eggs, and veggies, this salad will keep you entirely satiated for several hours.

Caesar Salad

This classic salad consists of crisp romaine lettuce coated in a creamy garlic dressing. Crunchy croutons and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese complete the dish. The tangy flavors of Caesar salad complement the rich taste of stuffed shells, creating a balanced meal.

Garden Salad

This type of salad typically includes a variety of crisp vegetables. Common ingredients are lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cool cucumbers, colorful bell peppers, and zesty red onions. However, the beauty of a garden salad lies in its adaptability. You can easily customize it based on personal preferences or whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Arugula Salad

Arugula, also known as rocket, has a characteristic peppery taste that adds a sophisticated touch to your meal. This salad is best when kept simple to allow the arugula’s unique flavor to shine through. A light dressing of lemon juice and olive oil is often sufficient, with optional additions of salt, pepper, and shaved Parmesan for extra flavor. 

The sharp, peppery notes of arugula create an interesting counterpoint to the creamy, savory flavors of stuffed shells.

Stuffed Tomatoes

You’ve heard of stuffed pasta shells, so why not stuff tomatoes?

Just scoop out the innards of a tomato with a large spoon, then stuff it with a combination of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, basil, and olive oil.

Bake this for 30 minutes at 350 degrees F, and your stuffed tomatoes are ready to be devoured.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is the classic accompaniment to have with your pasta, and for good reason. This tasty side dish is super simple, quick, and easy to prepare, promising to amp up the flavors of the spinach stuffed shells. Yum!

Combine butter and garlic in a bowl, brush this mixture over your bread, and sprinkle with parsley. Bake at 350 degrees F for 8 minutes. Then remove from the heat once golden brown.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Accompanying roasted root vegetables to any pasta dish is the best choice you can make and a great way to experiment with wonderful flavors. All you need are some carrots, potatoes, onions, and squash, and you’re good to go!

Broccoli

Roast broccoli can taste amazing, but there are a number of other ways to enjoy these tasty treats:

• Try stir fry broccoli with other vegetables
• Saute broccoli with olive oil and garlic
• Steamed broccoli with soups and salads
• Broccoli salad

To roast broccoli, you’ll need to cut off the florets and coat them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then roast at 400 degrees F for 25 minutes.

Once you’ve finished preparing the side dish, serve it alongside your stuffed shells for a delightful addition to your meal.

Salad

A simple salad goes a long way. You can make a very tasty salad with a variety of greens, fresh vegetables, and toppings. The crunchy, flavorful textures will contrast impeccably with your soft, stuffed jumbo pasta shells.

Cucumber Salad

Cucumbers are a refreshing salad that pairs well with many main dishes, including spinach-stuffed pasta. It’s best at soaking up all the flavorful goodness of any main dish. And if you’re serving stuffed pasta shells, you won’t need an additional sauce to go with it.

Slice some cucumbers and onions, and top with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Crisp Potato Wedges

Potato wedges cooked in an air fryer are the perfect side dish to have with any pasta dish, which is what makes them the perfect accompaniment to have with stuffed pasta shells.

Huge pasta shells stuffed with creamy spinach and served alongside crisp, flavorful wedges for dinner, yum!

Use russet potatoes if you want your wedges to emerge super crispy with a fluffy interior. Season with onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Bruschetta

Bruschetta is an Italian toast with a tasty tomato topping. It’s super delicious and very easy to prepare.

Simply toast some bread, add the tomatoes, and basil, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for an incredible addition to your main dinner.

Baguettes

Their crisp exterior and soft interior provide a neutral flavor that doesn’t overpower the main dish. Baguettes are versatile in their serving methods. You can serve them sliced at room temperature, lightly toasted with a drizzle of olive oil, or use them to soak up remaining sauce on the plate. The texture of baguettes provides a pleasant contrast to the soft, cheese-filled pasta shells.

Focaccia

It features olive oil and herb flavoring, a slightly chewy texture, and a dimpled surface ideal for absorbing sauce. While focaccia is available at many bakeries, you can also make it at home.

A basic recipe involves preparing a yeast dough with flour, water, salt, and olive oil. Allow the dough to rise, then spread it on a baking sheet. Create dimples on the surface, add olive oil and herbs such as rosemary or thyme, and bake until golden brown. Serve focaccia warm, cut into squares or wedges.

Broccoli Alfredo

You’re probably wondering about my choice of combination, but trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Broccoli and alfredo sauce harmonize to create an incredible side dish for you and your family to enjoy. If you’re amongst those who have larger appetites, then this one is for you. Spinach stuffed shells with a side of incredibly saucy, flavorful pasta.

What’s not to like?

Roasted Rainbow Bell Peppers

Roasting bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor.

Here’s a simple method: slice red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, toss them with olive oil and a pinch of salt, then roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes. The result is tender, caramelized peppers that complement stuffed shells. For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or oregano over your roasted peppers.

You can serve them hot, at room temperature, or chilled, making them an excellent make-ahead option.

Sautéed Garlic Spinach

A quick sauté with garlic turns it into a luxurious side dish. Start by sautéing sliced garlic in olive oil until it’s golden and fragrant. Then add a large amount of fresh spinach – it will reduce significantly during cooking – and cook just until wilted. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of sea salt. The result is a silky, garlicky green side that’s both healthy and delicious.

Veggie Medley Skewers

Thread chunks of zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and red onion onto skewers, brush with a mixture of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then grill or roast until they’re tender and lightly charred. These skewers are not only tasty but also present vegetables in an exciting way.

Crispy Kale Chips

If you’re looking for a crunchy side, consider kale chips. They’re easy to make and surprisingly addictive. Simply tear kale leaves into bite-sized pieces, toss with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, then bake until they’re crisp.

Kale chips are light enough not to overshadow your stuffed shells but flavorful enough to be enjoyable on their own. They’re also a clever way to incorporate more greens into your meal.

Antipasto Platter

This platter offers a variety of flavors and textures that will please any palate.

To create a well-rounded platter, include a selection of Italian cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and coppa. Add some cheeses such as mozzarella, parmesan, and gorgonzola for creamy contrast. Don’t forget to include olives for a briny kick, and marinated vegetables like artichokes or roasted red peppers for added depth. Serve with crusty bread or breadsticks for scooping and munching. 

The beauty of an antipasto platter lies in its flexibility – you can easily adjust the components based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Stuffed Mushrooms

They’re bite-sized, flavorful, and easy to prepare! Here’s a simple recipe: clean button mushrooms and remove the stems. Chop the stems and mix with breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped parsley, then stuff this mixture into the mushroom caps, drizzle with olive oil, and bake until golden. The earthy mushrooms pair wonderfully with the rich, cheesy stuffed shells, offering a similar flavor profile in a smaller package. These make great finger food for mingling guests. 

For a fun twist, try using the same filling as your stuffed shells in the mushrooms – it’s like a sneak preview of the main course!

Minestrone Soup

This Italian soup is known for its diverse ingredients, typically including a variety of vegetables, beans, and sometimes small pasta shapes. One of the advantages of minestrone is its adaptability. You can use almost any vegetables you have on hand, making it a practical option for home cooks. The base usually consists of tomatoes and beans, which provide a satisfying and nutritious foundation for the soup.

For best results, consider making your minestrone a day in advance. This allows the flavors to develop and intensify overnight, resulting in a more flavorful soup. 

Tomato Basil Soup

The soup’s tomato base echoes the flavors in the pasta dish’s sauce, creating a harmonious taste experience.

To serve, consider pouring the tomato basil soup into shallow bowls and placing a stuffed shell or two in the center. This presentation method allows the flavors to mingle while keeping the textures distinct. It also creates a visually appealing dish. For added flavor and aroma, garnish the soup with fresh basil leaves just before serving. The basil’s aromatic oils will be released, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the meal.

Italian Wedding Soup

Italian wedding soup offers a lighter option to pair with stuffed shells. Despite its name, this soup is not exclusively for weddings but is a popular choice for various meals. It typically contains small meatballs, tiny pasta shapes, and leafy greens in a clear broth.

The name “Italian wedding soup” is actually a mistranslation of “minestra maritata,” which means “married soup” in Italian. This refers to the combination of flavors in the soup, not to actual weddings.

For the best flavor, consider using a mixture of ground beef and pork for the meatballs. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving adds a final touch of flavor.

Beverages

Sparkling Water

Sparkling water is a refreshing choice: it’s light, crisp, and won’t overpower your meal. To make it more interesting, try infusing your sparkling water with fresh fruits or herbs. You can easily make these at home by adding sliced fruits or herbs to a pitcher of sparkling water and letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours. This allows the flavors to infuse into the water. 

For an extra touch, freeze some fruit in ice cubes to add to your drinks. As they melt, they’ll release more flavor into your beverage. Try combinations like lemon and basil, cucumber and mint, or strawberry and thyme for a delightful twist on plain sparkling water.

Italian Sodas

Despite their name, they were actually created by Italian immigrants in San Francisco.

To make an Italian soda, fill a glass with ice, add flavored syrup, pour in club soda, and optionally add a splash of cream for a “cremosa” version. 

Popular flavors include raspberry, strawberry, and vanilla, but don’t be afraid to experiment with unique options like lavender or blood orange. Italian sodas are customizable, so you can adjust the sweetness to your liking. They’re a great way to add a fun, interactive element to your meal with stuffed shells.

Herbal Teas

Herbal teas might not be the first thing you think of to pair with pasta, but they can be a delightful accompaniment. Options like peppermint, chamomile, and ginger tea each offer unique benefits. You can serve these teas hot or iced, depending on your preference and the weather.

Herbal teas are caffeine-free, making them a healthier alternative to sugary drinks, and can help settle your stomach after a rich meal.

Homemade Lemonade

The tangy flavor of homemade lemonade can cut through the richness of the cheese and sauce. To make it, mix fresh lemon juice with sugar and water, adjusting the sweetness to taste. For variations, try adding fresh berries or herbs, using honey instead of sugar, or making a sparkling version with carbonated water. 

Homemade lemonade is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in large batches, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Iced Tea

It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit different tastes. To make basic iced tea, brew a strong batch of your favorite tea, let it cool, then refrigerate and serve over ice. You can use black tea for a classic flavor, or try green tea for a lighter option. Popular variations include sweet tea, peach tea, and Arnold Palmer (a mix of iced tea and lemonade). 

How to Make Spinach Stuffed Shells

These spinach stuffed shells may appear fancy, but they’re super simple to make, and you’ll be able to enjoy this fun little dish in no time.

Here’s what you’ll need to make them:

• 20 to 22 jumbo pasta shells (cook entire packet to account for broken shells)
• 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups marinara sauce

1. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. You’ll only need 20 to 22 shells in total, depending on how many stuffed shells you intend to make. But I recommend using the entire packet’s worth because you’ll find lots of broken shells during the cooking process.
2. Meanwhile, spread half the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Then squeeze all of the liquid out of the spinach, and place the spinach on a tea towel, to squeeze out as much water as you can.
3. Prepare the filling by stirring spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, basil, salt, and garlic powder.
4. Stuff each shell with about 2 tablespoons of spinach mixture, and then arrange the shells neatly in the baking dish.
5. Pour the remainder of the marinara sauce over the top, and sprinkle with some more mozzarella.
6. Cover and bake the shells at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes or until heated.
7. Remove the cover during the final 5 to 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become gooey and crisp on top.

Stuff Those Shells and Enjoy!

Perhaps you’ll stop wondering what goes with stuffed shells and get to choose the best side dishes from the ideas I provided!

Prefer meat, vegetables, or simply pasta upon pasta? It’s entirely up to you!

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