Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are the perfect comfort food that never ceases to impress. These jumbo pasta shells, filled to the brim with a creamy ricotta cheese and fresh spinach mixture, embody the ultimate cozy dining experience. Ideal for a family dinner, a weeknight meal, or even a potluck, this dish brings a warm burst of flavor that will make any meal feel special. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these stuffed shells are a great way to elevate the ordinary.

Why Make This Recipe

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes spinach and ricotta stuffed shells stand out is how deliciously versatile and satisfying they are. This dish is vegetarian-friendly yet hearty enough to please any meat-lover’s palate. They are perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Not only is this recipe quick and budget-friendly, but it’s also filled with ingredients that are great for you. Fresh spinach provides essential vitamins, while ricotta adds a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. And the best part? Kids love these shells!

"These stuffed shells are an absolute favorite in our household! My kids devour them every time, and I love how easy they are to make." – Happy Home Cook

How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Easy Cooking Guide to Preparing This Recipe

Making spinach and ricotta stuffed shells is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The key steps involve boiling the pasta shells, prepping the cheesy filling, and baking them to perfection. Here’s what you can expect as you create this delightful dish:

1. Preheat your oven.
2. Cook your jumbo pasta shells.
3. Mix your cheesy filling.
4. Stuff the shells and arrange them in a baking dish.
5. Cover with marinara sauce and more cheese.
6. Bake until bubbly and golden brown.

Gather Your Ingredients

What You’ll Need

For this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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• Jumbo pasta shells
• Ricotta cheese
• Fresh spinach (chopped)
• Mozzarella cheese (divided)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Egg
• Marinara sauce
• Salt
• Pepper
• Olive oil (optional)

Feel free to substitute the fresh spinach with frozen spinach if you’re short on time, just make sure to thaw and drain it well.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain them and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, half of mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
4. Spoon the cheese mixture into each pasta shell and place them in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil if desired.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious vegetarian dinner!

How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Perfect Pairings for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

These stuffed shells make a striking centerpiece for your dining table. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh arugula salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A light drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving can elevate the presentation and flavor even further.

Best Way to Store Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Keeping Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Fresh Longer

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they are so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them before baking; simply wrap the stuffed shells tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them without defrosting, just add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.

Expert Advice

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Stuffed Shells

• Always salt your pasta water! This will enhance the flavor of your shells.
• Allow the cheese mixture to cool slightly before stuffing to prevent burning your hands.
• Experiment with different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for added flavor.

Creative Twists

Recipe Variations for Different Tastes

Feel free to customize the filling based on your preferences. Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or mix in some artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean touch. For a protein boost, you can include ground turkey or chicken in the filling.

Your Questions Answered

Common Questions About Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Prep time is around 15 minutes, and cooking takes about 35 minutes, making it a quick meal option.

Can I prepare these shells in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare them up to a day in advance; just store them in the refrigerator before baking.

What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
Feel free to use Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation or a homemade tomato sauce for a more authentic touch.

By focusing on this healthy and comforting dish, you’ll find spinach and ricotta stuffed shells becoming a staple in your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy the deliciousness and warmth they bring to your dining table!

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

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• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture, baked to perfection with marinara sauce and cheese.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Ricotta cheese
• Fresh spinach (chopped)
• Mozzarella cheese (divided)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 Egg
• Marinara sauce
• Salt
• Pepper
• Olive oil (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, half of the mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
4. Spoon the cheese mixture into each pasta shell and place them in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil if desired.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious vegetarian dinner!

Notes

You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well. For added flavor, consider mixing in other cheeses like feta or goat cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: stuffed shells, spinach and ricotta, vegetarian pasta, comfort food, easy recipe