Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is a delightful dish that combines creamy ricotta with fresh spinach, all enveloped in tender pasta shells. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in, this recipe offers comfort food at its finest. The rich flavors and satisfying textures ensure that every bite is a memorable experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of ricotta cheese, spinach, and marinara sauce creates a rich and satisfying dish that everyone will love.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is an excellent choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours!
- Perfect for Leftovers: These stuffed shells reheat beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation and cooking time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the jumbo pasta shells to the perfect al dente texture.
- Baking dish: Helps create a cozy environment for the stuffed shells as they bake in the oven.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all the delicious filling ingredients evenly.
Ingredients
Spinach-and-ricotta-stuffed shells deliver everything you love about comfort food — rich flavors, creamy textures, and the satisfaction of a homemade meal.
Pasta Shells
- 12–15 jumbo pasta shells (about 1/2 a box)
Cheeses
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped) or 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Marinara Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
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 when placed inside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
In a large pot of boiling salted water:
1. Add the jumbo pasta shells.
2. Cook them according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, spinach, garlic, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon:
1. Carefully fill each cooked shell with the ricotta-spinach mixture.
2. Place filled shells seam-side up in a baking dish coated with marinara sauce.
Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells:
1. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover with foil:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired:
1. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells!
How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are delicious and versatile, making them an excellent choice for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the rich flavors of the stuffed shells beautifully.
Add Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta filling.
- Italian Focaccia: This soft bread is great for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce.
Top with Extra Cheese
- Mozzarella: Sprinkling additional cheese on top before baking gives a wonderfully bubbly finish.
- Parmesan: A light dusting of Parmesan adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a fragrant touch to your plated dish.
- Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the presentation and flavor.
How to Perfect Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Perfecting your spinach and ricotta stuffed shells can elevate this dish even further. Here are some tips to ensure success.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality cheeses make a noticeable difference in taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cook pasta shells just until al dente; they will continue to cook while baking.
- Season Well: Taste your filling and season it adequately with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for balanced flavors.
- Layer Your Sauces: Spread some marinara at the bottom of the baking dish before adding shells to prevent sticking.
- Cover While Baking: Cover the dish with foil initially to keep moisture in, then uncover near the end for browning.
Best Side Dishes for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Complementing your spinach and ricotta stuffed shells with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, garlic, and roast until tender for a simple side.
- Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for an Italian classic.
- Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sauté spiralized zucchini with garlic as a low-carb alternative that adds freshness.
- Steamed Asparagus: Season asparagus spears lightly before steaming to keep them crisp yet tender.
- Antipasto Platter: Include olives, cured meats (if desired), marinated artichokes, and cheese for variety.
- Risotto: A creamy Parmesan risotto makes a luxurious accompaniment that pairs well with the stuffed shells.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Not cooking the pasta properly – Overcooked shells can tear easily. Cook them al dente to ensure they hold up during stuffing.
- Using too much spinach – It’s easy to think more is better, but excess spinach can make the filling watery. Stick to the recommended amount for creaminess.
- Skipping seasoning – A bland filling is a missed opportunity! Be sure to season your ricotta mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Not preheating the oven – Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before baking the stuffed shells for best results.
- Overstuffing the shells – While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overstuffing can lead to messy shells. Fill them generously but not excessively.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
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- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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- Tips: Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before sealing them in the container.
Freezing Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
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- Duration: They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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- Tips: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Reheating Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat individual servings on high for 1-2 minutes or until warm. Cover with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
- Stovetop – In a skillet with a splash of marinara sauce, heat over medium until warmed throughout, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe that might help you out.
How can I customize my Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe?
You can add other ingredients like mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Experiment with different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese as well!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance, then refrigerate them until ready to bake.
What should I serve with Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe?
Pair these delicious shells with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, making it perfect for meat-free meals.
Final Thoughts
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize them based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or preparing meals for the week, they are sure to delight everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its creamy richness!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a comforting Italian dish that brings joy to family dinners and gatherings. This delightful recipe features tender jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a rich mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs, all topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Easy to prepare, this dish is not only vegetarian-friendly but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Perfect for leftovers, these stuffed shells deliver satisfying flavors that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 12–15 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
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 mixing bowl, combine ricotta, half mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
- Fill each shell with the ricotta-spinach mixture and place them seam-side up in a baking dish coated with marinara sauce.
- Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
