CHEESY SPINACH & RICOTTA STUFFED SHELLS

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Introduction:

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a classic Italian dish that’s both hearty and delicious. This recipe combines tender jumbo pasta shells with a creamy, savory filling of spinach and ricotta cheese, all smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella. Ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you crave a satisfying meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Follow our easy recipe to create this cheesy, delectable dish right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • For the Stuffed Shells:
    • 20-24 jumbo pasta shells
    • 1 cup ricotta cheese
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
    • 1 egg
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • For Topping:
    • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, egg, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
  4. Stuff Shells: Spoon the cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell, ensuring they are generously filled.
  5. Assemble: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells.
  6. Add Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce-covered shells.
  7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

    Serving and Storage Tips for Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells:

    Serving Tips:

    1. Serve Hot: Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven. Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns and to let the flavors meld together.
    2. Garnish for Extra Flavor: Enhance the presentation and flavor by garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a nice touch.
    3. Pair with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of steamed vegetables. A light balsamic vinaigrette or Italian dressing complements the rich flavors of the stuffed shells.
    4. Portion Control: Serve the stuffed shells in individual portions, especially if you’re presenting them at a dinner party. Using a spatula to carefully lift each shell from the baking dish ensures neat serving.
    5. Use a Salad Plate: For a more elegant presentation, serve the stuffed shells on a salad plate rather than a dinner plate. This makes the dish look more refined and helps with portion control.

    Storage Tips:

    1. Cool Before Storing: Allow the Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container, which can make the shells soggy.
    2. Refrigerate: Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 4 days. Make sure the container is well-sealed to maintain freshness and prevent odors from other foods in the fridge.
    3. Freeze for Longer Storage: For longer-term storage, you can freeze the stuffed shells. Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
    4. Reheat Properly: To reheat, thaw frozen stuffed shells in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven method helps retain the best texture.
    5. Avoid Overcooking When Reheating: Be careful not to overcook the stuffed shells when reheating, as this can dry them out. Check frequently and heat until just warmed through.
    6. Store Sauce Separately: If you have extra marinara sauce, store it separately from the stuffed shells to prevent the pasta from becoming too soggy. The sauce can be refrigerated or frozen as well, depending on when you plan to use it.

      Variations for Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells:

      1. Mushroom & Spinach Stuffed Shells:
        • Add-Ins: Sauté chopped mushrooms and mix them with the spinach and ricotta filling. This adds a savory, earthy flavor to the dish.
        • Seasoning: Enhance with a dash of thyme or rosemary for additional depth.
      2. Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells:
        • Protein Addition: Cook and crumble ground turkey and mix it with the spinach and ricotta filling. This adds a hearty, protein-packed twist to the dish.
        • Seasoning: Add Italian seasoning to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
      3. Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Stuffed Shells:
        • Flavor Boost: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil into the filling for a burst of tangy and aromatic flavors.
        • Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
      4. Three-Cheese Stuffed Shells:
        • Cheese Blend: Use a combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses in the filling for an extra cheesy experience.
        • Topping: Add extra shredded mozzarella and Parmesan on top before baking for a gooey, cheesy crust.
      5. Pesto & Spinach Stuffed Shells:
        • Pesto Addition: Mix a few tablespoons of basil pesto into the ricotta filling for a vibrant, herbaceous flavor.
        • Topping: Garnish with additional pesto before serving for a fresh touch.
      6. Spicy Sausage & Spinach Stuffed Shells:
        • Spicy Kick: Use crumbled spicy Italian sausage in place of ground turkey or as an addition to the spinach and ricotta filling.
        • Seasoning: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat.
      7. Chicken & Spinach Stuffed Shells:
        • Protein Addition: Mix shredded cooked chicken into the spinach and ricotta filling for a satisfying, protein-rich variation.
        • Seasoning: Add a bit of lemon zest to brighten up the filling.
      8. Vegetable Medley Stuffed Shells:
        • Veggie Mix: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots into the spinach and ricotta filling for added texture and nutrition.
        • Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley or oregano to the filling for extra flavor.
      9. Creamy Alfredo Stuffed Shells:
        • Sauce Change: Replace marinara sauce with creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer, creamier dish.
        • Topping: Top with additional Parmesan cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.
      10. Low-Carb Stuffed Shells:
        • Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb or gluten-free pasta shells if you’re looking for a healthier version.
        • Alternative Filling: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese and reduce the amount of cheese to lower the fat content while keeping the flavor.


    Conclusion:

    Savor the delicious flavors of Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells with this easy-to-follow recipe. Combining creamy ricotta and spinach with tender pasta shells and rich marinara sauce, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a meal you’ll want to make time and time again.

    FAQ’s about Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells:

    1. Can I make Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells in advance? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance. Assemble them up to 24 hours before baking and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, cover with foil and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
    2. Can I freeze Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells? Absolutely. To freeze, assemble the stuffed shells and place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen by adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
    3. What can I use as a substitute for ricotta cheese? If you need a ricotta substitute, try cottage cheese, cream cheese, or mascarpone cheese. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can also work, though it may slightly alter the texture.
    4. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of jumbo shells? Yes, you can use other types of pasta like manicotti or even lasagna noodles, although you’ll need to adjust the cooking and assembly process accordingly.
    5. How do I prevent the stuffed shells from sticking to the baking dish? To prevent sticking, lightly grease the baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil before adding the marinara sauce and stuffed shells.
    6. Can I use homemade marinara sauce instead of store-bought? Yes, homemade marinara sauce works wonderfully with this recipe. Simply use your favorite marinara recipe or any other tomato-based sauce you prefer.
    7. How can I make the stuffed shells spicier? To add a bit of heat, mix in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the ricotta filling. You can also use a spicy marinara sauce or add chopped jalapeños to the filling.
    8. Can I make a vegetarian version of this recipe? The Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe is already vegetarian. To add more variety, consider including other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers in the filling.
    9. What should I serve with Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells? These stuffed shells pair well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You might also enjoy them with a side of roasted or sautéed veggies for a well-rounded meal.
    10. How can I make the stuffed shells gluten-free? To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells or another gluten-free pasta shape. Ensure that the marinara sauce and any additional ingredients are gluten-free as well.

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