These Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a cozy dish that brings the family together with each bite. Packed with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, they deliver a delightful taste that warms you from the inside out. Trust me, this recipe is not just delicious; it’s also straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely Sunday dinners.
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Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting family dinner featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well blended.
- Fill each pasta shell with the mixture and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to customize with different cheeses or add veggies to the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
As the smell of marinara sauce bubbles in the oven, there’s something almost magical in the air that makes everyone feel at home. I still remember the afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, her laughter mixing with the aroma of her famous stuffed shells wafting through the air, inviting us to gather around the table. Now, I love to recreate that same cozy feeling for my kids, who have dubbed these as their favorite family dish. Each time we share a plate, it’s like a warm hug and a cherished memory all in one.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a great way to sneak in some veggies for the little ones. The creamy ricotta pairs beautifully with the fresh spinach, creating a rich filling that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re making them for a crowd or just your immediate family, these shells show that comfort food can be simple yet delicious. Plus, they’re easy to customize and fun to make together, turning dinner prep into a family bonding moment!
Let’s Cook It Together
Gather around the kitchen, and let’s create this mouthwatering dish together! Here’s everything you’ll need to make your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells come to life.
What You’ll Need
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step Directions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). The anticipation of the warm aroma will set the stage for your cooking journey.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente; drain and set aside. The shape of these shells is perfect for holding the scrumptious filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well until it’s beautifully blended.
- Using a spoon, generously fill each pasta shell with the rich cheese mixture and place them snugly in a baking dish, like little beds of goodness waiting to be baked.
- Pour marinara sauce generously over the stuffed shells, ensuring each one is lovingly coated. Then, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top for that gooey, melty finish we all crave!
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven, baking for 25 minutes. This will allow the flavors to marry together blissfully.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step creates that golden, bubbly cheese on top — pure comfort!
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving — though trust me, the aroma will have everyone rushing to the table! Enjoy your delightful Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, and appreciate the smiles around you.
Nutrition Values
- Serving size: 2 stuffed shells
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 19g
- Carbs: 36g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full longer without feeling heavy, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
Best Ways to Serve It
When serving these delicious shells, I love to plate them with a side salad; the crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy pasta. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette adds a touch of brightness. Don’t forget a glass of your favorite white wine or maybe some sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a lovely touch. These stuffed shells are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a delightful gathering with friends.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
If you want to save time during the week, consider prepping your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time. You can assemble the shells earlier in the day, cover them with foil, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This dish also freezes beautifully, so if you have leftovers, just pop them in an airtight container and you can reheat them later for a quick meal! To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until heated through.
Pro Tips from My Kitchen
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Al dente pasta shells will hold up better to the filling and baking process, preventing them from becoming mushy.
- Season the Filling: Taste your filling before filling the shells. Adjust seasoning to your liking for the best flavor blast.
- Extra Cheese, Please: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in place of ricotta or mozzarella, such as goat cheese or cottage cheese for a twist.
- Marinara Matters: Use a quality marinara sauce — it makes all the difference! If you’re up for it, homemade sauce will elevate this dish even more.
- Herbs Galore: Add fresh or dried herbs like basil or thyme into the filling or sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Creative Twists to Try
- Meaty Addition: For a heartier version, add cooked ground beef or turkey into the cheese filling for added protein.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Veggie Boost: You can enhance the filling by adding diced mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or artichokes for a delightful flavor twist.
FAQs
Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely! These stuffed shells freeze wonderfully. Just assemble and freeze before baking or cook them first, then freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat straight from the freezer or thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
What’s the best substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, cottage cheese works well as a substitute. Just make sure to blend it a little to get a creamier texture, or try a blend of cream cheese and Greek yogurt for that same rich flavor.
How long will this stay fresh?
In the refrigerator, these stuffed shells will generally stay fresh for about 3-4 days in an airtight container. If you’ve baked them and have leftovers, be sure to refrigerate them within two hours after serving.
Can I double the recipe for meal prep?
Definitely! Doubling the recipe is a great idea and perfect for meal prep. You’ll have leftovers for the week, making busy nights stress-free!
Embrace the warmth and joy of cooking with these Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells. Bonus points when served with a side of love and laughter! Enjoy the tradition and create new family memories around the dinner table with this comforting dish.