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Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Comfort Food Bliss

A comforting blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach fills jumbo shells in this delicious vegetarian dish.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Cook al dente for best stuffing results.
For the Filling
  • 4 cups Fresh Spinach Can be replaced with thawed frozen spinach.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese The creamy base for the filling.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Opt for fresh for maximum flavor.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Can substitute with Pecorino Romano.
  • 1 large Egg Can be substituted for a flax egg for vegan versions.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Use store-bought or homemade.
For Seasoning
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic gives a bolder taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Basil Can use dried herbs as alternative.
  • Italian Seasoning Adjust according to preference.
  • Salt Adjust to your personal taste.
  • Pepper Adjust to your personal taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking dish
  • colander
  • Spoon or Piping Bag

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prep Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Sauté Spinach: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced cloves of garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Toss in 4 cups of fresh spinach, cooking until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and allow to cool slightly.
  3. Combine Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine sautéed spinach with 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, and ½ cup parmesan. Add 1 beaten egg, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
  4. Stuff Shells: Fill each cooled pasta shell with the cheesy spinach mixture. Set the stuffed shells aside.
  5. Arrange: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place stuffed shells upright and pour remaining marinara sauce over the top.
  6. Bake: Cover baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes before serving warm topped with fresh basil or grated parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingsCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Cook pasta al dente, chill shells for ease, broil for a crispy finish, and use any extra filling creatively.

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