Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, all enveloped in tender pasta shells. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply when you crave comfort food. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to become a favorite on your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Comfort Food: The combination of creamy ricotta and savory spinach creates a mouthwatering filling that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce.
- Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Meal: Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, these stuffed shells fit any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from ricotta and nutrients from spinach, this dish is not only tasty but also good for you.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these shells in advance and bake them later, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta shells without overcrowding them, ensuring even cooking.
- Baking dish: Helps retain heat while baking your stuffed shells and showcases the dish beautifully when serving.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe:
For the Pasta Shells
- 12–15 jumbo pasta shells (about 1/2 a box)
For the Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped) or 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffed shells cook evenly once assembled.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 2 cups ricotta cheese
2. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve remaining for topping)
4. 1 large egg
5. 2 cups chopped spinach or 1 cup thawed frozen spinach
6. 2 cloves minced garlic
7. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
Mix everything well until fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells
Spread about half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish.
Fill each cooked pasta shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a spoon. Place filled shells in the baking dish in a single layer.
Step 5: Top with Sauce & Cheese
Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle with reserved shredded mozzarella cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Then remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let cool slightly before serving; garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells!
How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Serving Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells is a delightful experience. These stuffed shells can be presented in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Family Style
- Serve the stuffed shells directly from the baking dish for a cozy, communal feel. This encourages sharing and conversation at the table.
Individual Plates
- For a more formal presentation, plate each stuffed shell with marinara sauce and sprinkle some extra cheese on top. This adds a touch of elegance to your meal.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Add chopped fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh flavor.
With Extra Marinara on the Side
- Offer additional marinara sauce in a small bowl for dipping. This allows guests to enjoy more of that rich tomato flavor.
Accompanied by Garlic Bread
- Pairing your stuffed shells with warm garlic bread creates a perfect combination for any Italian meal.
How to Perfect Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
To ensure your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose the right pasta: Opt for jumbo pasta shells as they hold the filling well and make for an impressive presentation.
- Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh spinach and real cheeses. They provide better flavor than frozen or processed options.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the shells al dente before filling them. This prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your ricotta mixture before stuffing the shells. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the best flavor balance.
- Cover while baking: Cover the baking dish with foil during the first half of cooking to prevent drying out. Remove it later for browning.
- Let it rest: Allow the baked dish to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps set everything together nicely.
Best Side Dishes for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are deliciously filling, but pairing them with side dishes can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options:
Garlic Bread
A classic choice that complements the flavors perfectly; it’s great for dipping into marinara sauce.Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan adds freshness to your meal.Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus roasted with olive oil provide a colorful side that balances richness.Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze create a light dish that pairs well with stuffed shells.Steamed Broccoli
Tender broccoli seasoned with lemon juice offers a nutritious addition that contrasts nicely with creamy flavors.Antipasto Platter
A mix of cured meats, olives, artichokes, and cheeses makes for an enjoyable starter or side that adds variety to your meal.Italian Wedding Soup
A warm bowl of this hearty soup gives an extra layer of comfort food experience alongside your main dish.Zucchini Noodles
Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles can serve as a low-carb alternative or complement to traditional pasta dishes like stuffed shells.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
Ignoring the pasta cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking pasta shells can ruin your dish. Always follow the package instructions for al dente shells.
Skipping the seasoning: A lack of seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to season your ricotta mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
Using too much filling: Overstuffing the shells can make them fall apart during baking. Fill each shell generously but don’t overdo it.
Not draining spinach properly: Excess moisture from spinach can make your filling watery. Ensure that frozen spinach is thoroughly drained and fresh spinach is well chopped.
Forgetting to cover while baking: Not covering the dish can result in dry shells. Use foil for the first part of baking, then uncover to brown the cheese.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked stuffed shells in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Place uncooked or cooked stuffed shells in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 2-3 minutes.
- Stovetop: In a skillet, add a bit of marinara sauce and heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking for more information about this recipe, here are some frequently asked questions:
Can I prepare Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or cream cheese can be good alternatives if you’re looking for a change in flavor or texture.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Both cooked and uncooked stuffed shells freeze well, making it perfect for meal prep.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftover Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe will last about 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Final Thoughts
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is a delightful comfort food that combines creamy ricotta with fresh spinach, wrapped in tender pasta shells. This dish offers versatility; feel free to add ingredients like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or different cheeses. Try it today for a satisfying meal that’s perfect any night of the week!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy ricotta cheese with fresh spinach, all wrapped in tender jumbo pasta shells. This delicious dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply satisfying your cravings for a hearty meal. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s bound to become a favorite on your dinner table. Easy to prepare and full of nutritious ingredients, this recipe is not just delicious but also a wholesome choice for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12–15 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped) or 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture and arrange them in the dish.
- Pour remaining marinara over stuffed shells and sprinkle with reserved mozzarella. Drizzle with olive oil and season with Italian herbs.
- Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (200g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
