Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a comforting Italian-inspired dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture, smothered in marinara sauce, and baked to perfection with melty cheese on top. Whether for a family dinner or a make-ahead meal, this recipe is sure to please!

Ingredients

• Jumbo Pasta Shells (20-25 shells)
  The perfect vessel for holding the creamy filling. Cook until al dente for best results.
• Ricotta Cheese (1 ½ cups)
  The creamy base for the filling. Use whole milk ricotta for the best flavor and texture.
• Frozen Spinach (10 oz, thawed and drained)
  Adds nutrients and a vibrant green color to the filling. Fresh spinach, cooked and chopped, works just as well.
• Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded, divided)
  Melts beautifully and adds gooey richness to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated)
  Adds a nutty, salty flavor to the filling.
• Egg (1 large)
  Helps bind the filling together.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
  Infuses the filling with aromatic depth.
• Fresh Basil (2 tablespoons, chopped, plus more for garnish)
  Adds a burst of freshness to the dish.
• Marinara Sauce (3 cups)
  The flavorful base for the shells. Use store-bought or homemade marinara.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
  Essential for seasoning the filling and sauce.

How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, thawed and drained spinach, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture and place them in the dish, open side up.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re evenly covered. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.

Step 6: Bake the Shells
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing bowl for the filling
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Spoon or piping bag for stuffing shells

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes! Sauté 5-6 cups of fresh spinach until wilted, then chop and drain before adding it to the filling.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the stuffed shells, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if chilled.

What’s the best way to stuff the shells?
Use a small spoon or a piping bag to fill the shells neatly and quickly.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes, they freeze beautifully! Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container without baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes.

What can I serve with stuffed shells?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are excellent accompaniments.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a similar texture, and add or replace mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.

How do I prevent the shells from sticking while cooking?
Stir the pasta occasionally while boiling, and rinse with cold water after draining to remove excess starch.

Conclusion

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their cheesy filling, tangy marinara, and golden topping, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you try this recipe, don’t forget to share it on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for your next pasta night. Mangia!