Keto Stuffed Jumbo Shells are the perfect low-carb twist for anyone craving classic Italian comfort food. These large, tender shells are filled with a rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, and a hint of nutmeg. Made entirely with keto-friendly ingredients—including low-carb pasta substitutes, cheese, and sugar-free marinara—this dish delivers the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed shells without the carbs.
Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, these Keto Stuffed Jumbo Shells are ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings. Every bite offers a delicious mix of melty cheese and savory herbs. You can also freeze them in a single layer in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 50–60 days, making them a convenient make-ahead option.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the empty oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C).
- Place the low-carb pasta shells on a medium flame and cook them as mentioned in the nutritional facts.
- Strain them well and keep away.
- Mix garlic, mozzarella, salt, egg, Italian seasoning, nutmeg, pepper, parmesan, and ricotta in a big bowl till they are smooth.
- Distribute one cup of marinara sauce in the base of the baking dish (nine by thirteen inches).
- By using a small ice scoop or spoon, stuff each shell properly with the cheese batter.
- Place the filled shells in the baking dish and set it properly.
- Distribute the leftover marinara sauce on the shells.
- If you want, garnish it with more Parmesan and mozzarella.
- Cover it with aluminum foil.
- Insert it in the oven to bake for almost twenty minutes.
- Then take out the foil and leave it to bake for more ten to fifteen minutes.
- Till the cheese gets bubbly and brown.
- Before serving, garnish it with some parsley and fresh basil.
Notes
NUTRITIONAL FACTS:
- Net carbs: 6 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Fats: 32 g
- No.of calories: 420 kcal
- Proteins: 22 g
- Single portion size: 4
- Total carbs: 8 g
Keto Stuffed Jumbo Shells
INGREDIENT NOTES & KETO SUBSTITUTIONS
EGG:
Acts as a binder that helps hold the cheese filling together so the shells keep their shape.
NUTMEG:
Adds a warm, subtle flavor that enhances the richness of the ricotta filling.
GARLIC:
Fresh garlic brings bold, natural flavor. Garlic powder can be used as a quick substitute.
RICOTTA CHEESE:
Use full-fat ricotta to maintain creaminess while keeping carbs low.
JUMBO PASTA SHELLS:
Choose keto-friendly jumbo shells made from konjac or almond flour. Traditional wheat pasta is high in carbs and not suitable for keto.
MARINARA SAUCE:
Opt for homemade keto marinara or a store-bought sugar-free version to reduce carbs.
PARMESAN CHEESE:
Adds a salty, nutty flavor that boosts the overall taste without adding many carbs.
ITALIAN SEASONING:
A blend of dried herbs that deepens the savory flavor of the filling.
MOZZARELLA CHEESE:
Freshly grated mozzarella melts smoothly and adds that desirable gooey, cheesy texture.
TIPS
- Use a piping bag or small spoon for cleaner, easier stuffing.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Avoid overfilling the shells, as the cheese mixture may spill during baking.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Salads:
- Caesar Salad
- Arugula with Lemon Vinaigrette
- Classic Caprese
Side Dishes:
- Garlic Butter Zoodles
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Creamed Spinach
Beverages:
- Sparkling Lemon Water
- Unsweetened Iced Tea
- Almond Milk (unsweetened)
STORAGE INFORMATION
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.
Freezing:
Freeze stuffed shells (baked) in a single layer for 50–60 days in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make the shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them overnight before baking.
What can I use if I don’t have keto pasta shells?
Substitute with thin slices of eggplant, zucchini, or halved bell peppers.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use coconut-based or vegan keto cheeses and replace ricotta with a dairy-free alternative.
Can I add meat to the filling?
Yes—ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken can be mixed into the filling as long as they are keto-friendly.
