Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

Craving something cozy, comforting, and packed with cheesy goodness? Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells is the answer! These plump pasta shells are generously stuffed with a creamy mixture of ricotta, spinach, and a hint of garlic, all topped with a rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

This dish is perfect for when you want something hearty, comforting, and easy to prepare. Here’s why it’s going to become a favorite:

Effortless to Make

With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a simple yet satisfying dinner.

Comfort in Every Bite

The combination of spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella is so creamy and satisfying. Paired with the tangy marinara sauce, every bite feels like a little piece of heaven.

Great for Meal Prep

This recipe is perfect for prepping in advance. You can make it ahead of time, pop it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Vegetarian-Friendly

Packed with spinach and ricotta, these stuffed shells are a hearty, meatless meal that will leave everyone satisfied.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: The perfect vessel to hold all that cheesy goodness.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and slightly sweet, it forms the base of the stuffing.
• Fresh Spinach: Loaded with nutrients and a perfect complement to the creamy ricotta.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melty and gooey, it brings the perfect texture to each bite.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a little extra sharpness to balance the richness of the ricotta.
• Garlic: For that subtle, aromatic flavor.
• Egg: To bind everything together and give the filling structure.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, to enhance all the flavors.

For the Sauce:

• Marinara Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, this rich tomato sauce is the perfect base for the stuffed shells.
• Fresh Basil (optional): For a fresh, fragrant garnish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~450 kcal
Protein: 21g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool slightly. Be careful not to overcook the shells as they need to hold the stuffing.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach and Ricotta Filling

In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then, add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, cooked spinach, and salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Once the pasta shells are cool enough to handle, stuff each shell with a generous amount of the spinach and ricotta filling. Be careful not to overstuff, as you want to ensure they stay intact when baking.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, open side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they’re well covered. Top with a little extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that cheesy, golden finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh basil (if desired), and serve your delicious stuffed shells warm! Enjoy with a side salad or some crusty bread.

How to Serve Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Serve with a Fresh Salad

Pair this dish with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances out the rich and cheesy stuffed shells perfectly.

Add Garlic Bread

A side of warm, buttery garlic bread is always a winner! It’s perfect for dipping into that extra marinara sauce.

Enjoy on Its Own

These stuffed shells are hearty enough to stand alone. The combination of pasta, cheese, and spinach makes this a filling and satisfying meal.

Additional Tips

• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells the night before and refrigerate them. Just bake them the next day, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through.
• Substitute with Frozen Spinach: If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the filling.
• Add Protein: If you prefer a meatier version, try adding cooked chicken or sausage to the filling.
• Sauce Variations: Feel free to use different sauces, like a creamy Alfredo, if you’re craving a different flavor profile.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular ricotta cheese or do I need a special kind?

A1: Regular ricotta works just fine! If you want an extra creamy texture, you can also opt for whole milk ricotta.

Q2: Can I make this dish gluten-free?

A2: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta shells, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of this dish.

Q3: Can I freeze these stuffed shells?

A3: Yes! You can freeze the assembled shells before baking. Just cover them tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the same baking instructions.

Q4: Can I make the stuffing without spinach?

A4: Absolutely! You can skip the spinach and add other ingredients like roasted red peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a different twist.

Q5: What should I serve with stuffed shells?

A5: Besides garlic bread and a fresh salad, you could also serve these shells with a side of roasted vegetables or sautéed greens for a complete meal.

Conclusion

These Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells are the perfect balance of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a dish to impress guests, or a meal to meal-prep, this recipe checks all the boxes. With creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and a rich marinara sauce, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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