Zesty Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe That Wows Guests

Comfort food reaches new heights with these delectable spinach ricotta stuffed shells that promise a burst of creamy, cheesy goodness.

Pasta shells cradle a luxurious blend of vibrant spinach and rich ricotta cheese, creating a mouthwatering combination.

Every forkful delivers a perfect balance of tender pasta and savory filling that melts in your mouth.

The recipe combines classic Italian flavors with simple, wholesome ingredients you already love.

Fresh herbs and a touch of garlic elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Cheese lovers and vegetable enthusiasts will adore this satisfying meal that comes together with minimal effort.

Prepare to be transported to a cozy Italian kitchen with this irresistible culinary creation.

Storing Spinach Stuffed Shells for Later Meals

• – Refrigerate Promptly store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• – Chill Safely keep the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to preserve flavor and texture.
• – Freeze Wrap individual portions or the entire dish in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil for long-term storage up to 2-3 months.
• – Reheat Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in the oven at 350F (175C) covered with foil for 15-20 minutes until heated through completely.

FAQs

• Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are completely vegetarian, making it perfect for meatless meals or for those who prefer plant-based dishes.

• Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the frozen spinach to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

• How difficult is this recipe for beginners?

This recipe is quite beginner-friendly. The steps are straightforward, and there’s no complex technique required – just mixing ingredients and assembling the shells.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, which makes it great for meal prep or entertaining.

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells: Why They’re a Hit

• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Whip up this stuffed shells recipe with minimal prep and easy-to-find ingredients, making dinner a breeze for busy families.
• Pack a Nutritional Punch: Loaded with protein-rich ricotta, calcium-packed cheeses, and nutrient-dense spinach, this dish delivers a wholesome meal in every bite.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, these stuffed shells bring everyone to the table with their irresistible Italian-inspired flavors.
• Customize with Ease: Swap spinach for other veggies, adjust cheese types, or add extra herbs to make this recipe uniquely yours while keeping the delicious core intact.

Ingredients for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

• Jumbo Shells: Large pasta shells perfect for stuffing with creamy cheese and spinach.
• Ricotta Cheese: A soft, creamy Italian cheese that creates a smooth and rich filling.
• Spinach: A nutritious green vegetable that adds color and flavor to the cheese mixture.
• Marinara Sauce: A classic tomato-based sauce that provides moisture and traditional Italian taste.

• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Melty cheeses that enhance the overall flavor and create a golden, bubbly topping.
• Egg: Helps bind the cheese mixture and provides structure to the filling.

• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the filling.
• Fresh Basil: A fragrant herb that adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish.

Directions for Stuffed Shells with Creamy Filling

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Oven

Turn on the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

Carefully add jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they’re tender but still firm.

Drain the shells in a colander and spread them out on a clean kitchen towel to cool and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Creamy Filling

• Smooth ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella
• Grated Parmesan
• Beaten egg
• Finely chopped fresh spinach

Sprinkle in salt and black pepper, then mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the filling looks well-blended.

Step 3: Build the Pasta Masterpiece

Grab a baking dish and spread half of the marinara sauce across the bottom.

Using a spoon, carefully stuff each pasta shell with a generous amount of the cheese and spinach mixture.

Arrange the filled shells neatly in the baking dish.

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring the shells are well-covered.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and slide it into the preheated oven.

Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes.

The dish is ready when the sauce is bubbling and the cheese looks golden and melted.

Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves just before serving.

Tips for Baking Perfect Ricotta Stuffed Shells

• Boil shells just until al dente to prevent tearing and maintain structural integrity when stuffing.
• Squeeze excess water from spinach to keep the ricotta mixture firm and prevent watery stuffing.
• Add minced garlic or Italian herbs to the cheese mixture for deeper, more complex taste dimensions.
• Prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld together before baking.
• Substitute ricotta with tofu or cashew cream for a dairy-free version that maintains creamy consistency.

Stuffed Shell Variations for Pasta Lovers

• Vegan Veggie Shells: Replace ricotta with tofu, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and swap mozzarella for dairy-free cheese. Add roasted bell peppers and zucchini to the filling for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free jumbo shells or replace shells with large zucchini boats. Ensure marinara sauce is certified gluten-free.
• Protein-Packed Version: Mix ground turkey or chicken into the cheese filling. Add quinoa for extra protein and nutritional boost.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Shells: Incorporate feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh oregano. Use Greek-style marinara sauce and top with crumbled kalamata olives.

Serving Stuffed Shells with Extra Sauce

• Cozy Family Dinner Delight: Serve these stuffed shells with a crisp green salad tossed in light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
• Hearty Italian Side Kick: Pair with garlic bread or crusty sourdough to soak up the delicious marinara sauce and complete the meal.
• Wine and Dine Companion: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese that complements the rich, cheesy flavors of the dish.
• Veggie Boost Bonus: Add a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to increase nutritional value and add colorful variety to the plate.

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

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4.5 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Cheesy spinach ricotta stuffed shells bring Mediterranean comfort to pasta night, offering a delightful blend of creamy ricotta and tender spinach. Rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make this classic Italian-inspired dish perfect for family dinners and weekend gatherings.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Cheese and Binding Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg

Seasoning and Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 jar (24 ounces/680 grams) marinara sauce
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), preparing a welcoming environment for the stuffed shells to bake to perfection.
2. Boil jumbo shells in salted water according to package instructions, ensuring they’re cooked al dente. Carefully drain and allow to cool until comfortable to handle.
3. Create a luxurious filling by combining ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg in a mixing bowl. Gently fold in finely chopped spinach, then season with salt and pepper to elevate the flavor profile.
4. Spread half the marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking dish, creating a vibrant base for the shells.
5. Generously stuff each shell with the creamy cheese and spinach mixture, arranging them carefully in the sauce-lined dish.
6. Drizzle the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring complete coverage.
7. Shield the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the dish is bubbling and the cheese becomes golden and irresistibly melted.
9. Garnish with freshly torn basil leaves just before serving, adding a burst of aromatic freshness to the dish.

Notes

• Choose jumbo shells that are intact and free from cracks to prevent filling leakage during baking.
• Pat spinach dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture making the filling watery and losing its creamy texture.
• Customize the cheese blend by experimenting with different Italian cheeses like fontina or provolone for unique flavor profiles.
• Make this dish vegetarian-friendly by ensuring all cheese ingredients are rennet-free and using plant-based marinara sauce.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 590 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg