Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe offers a delightful combination of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella all tucked into pasta shells. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even date night. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that can be customized with your favorite herbs or sauces.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich in Flavor: The blend of cheeses and spices creates a deliciously savory experience with every bite.
- Versatile Dish: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these cheesy pasta shells, making it a perfect choice for family meals.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and protein-rich cheese, this dish is a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe successfully, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Pot for boiling pasta
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and helps the cheese melt to perfection.
- Mixing bowl: Using a mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly for a creamy filling.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping spinach and mincing garlic quick and easy, saving time in preparation.
Ingredients
For this flavorful Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
Pasta Shells
- 12–15 jumbo pasta shells (about 1/2 a box)
Cheese Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
Spinach Mixture
- 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped) or 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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) to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
Boil water in a large pot. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. The ricotta cheese,
2. Half of the shredded mozzarella,
3. Grated Parmesan,
4. Egg,
5. Chopped spinach,
6. Minced garlic,
7. Italian seasoning,
8. Salt and pepper.
Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 4: Fill the Pasta Shells
Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture. Place filled shells seam-side up in a greased baking dish.
Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm as part of your meal!
How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this comforting meal.
With a Side Salad
- Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast to the creamy shells.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and savory dressing complement the richness of the stuffed shells beautifully.
Topped with Extra Cheese
- More Mozzarella: Sprinkling extra mozzarella on top before baking creates a deliciously gooey layer.
- Parmesan Crust: Adding Parmesan cheese on top gives a nice, crispy finish when baked.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Basil Leaves: Fresh basil not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile.
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley offers a fresh taste that balances the rich filling.
Accompanied by Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread for a perfect way to scoop up any leftover sauce.
- Focaccia: This soft, flavorful bread pairs well with the creamy stuffed shells.
How to Perfect Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
To make your spinach and ricotta stuffed shells even more delicious, consider these tips for perfection.
- Seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your cheese mixture well. Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper enhance flavor.
- Properly Cook Pasta: Ensure your pasta is al dente before filling. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Layer Sauce Generously: Spread marinara sauce generously on the bottom of your baking dish for added moisture and flavor.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses like feta or goat cheese can add unique flavors to your filling.
Best Side Dishes for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Pairing side dishes with spinach and ricotta stuffed shells can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great side options.
- Garlic Bread: This classic accompaniment is perfect for soaking up marinara sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrients to your plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and balances the richness of the dish.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the stuffed shells.
- Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, and olives makes for an elegant starter.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto offers another layer of comfort alongside the stuffed shells.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil as a low-carb side.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides freshness that complements the rich flavors of the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key for a successful dish.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can make the dish bland. Always taste your filling and sauce before assembling.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the shells too long may cause them to break. Boil them until just al dente, since they’ll cook further in the oven.
- Not draining spinach properly: Excess moisture from spinach can make your filling watery. Ensure you thoroughly drain frozen spinach or squeeze fresh spinach to remove excess water.
- Ignoring the cheese blend: Using only one type of cheese may result in a lack of flavor. Blend ricotta with Parmesan and mozzarella for a rich taste.
- Using cold filling: Assembling the shells with cold filling can lead to uneven cooking. Let your filling come to room temperature before stuffing the shells.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store tightly covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep any leftover marinara sauce separate to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Freeze unbaked stuffed shells for up to 3 months.
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Reheating Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short increments, checking every minute until warm.
- Stovetop: For individual servings, place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions readers often have about this recipe:
Can I use different cheeses for the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for unique flavors.
How long does it take to prepare the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes of cooking time.
Can I make the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them a day in advance or freeze them for later use.
What can I serve with Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
Pair these stuffed shells with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite ingredients like mushrooms or artichokes. Give this recipe a try for an easy yet delightful dinner experience!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a delicious dish that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy date night. These jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy blend of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, then topped with melty mozzarella and savory marinara sauce. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers flexibility—customize it with your favorite herbs, vegetables, or additional cheeses for a personal touch. With its hearty ingredients and delightful taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dining table.
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 or thawed spinach
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells in boiling water until al dente, then drain and cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each shell with the cheese mixture and place seam-side up in a greased baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
