Delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of warm, cheesy stuffed shells. This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe is my go-to when I need a satisfying meal that feels a little fancy but is actually super easy to pull together. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting friends, these baked pasta shells are always a hit!

If you love pasta packed with creamy, cheesy goodness, these Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a dish that looks impressive but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble them in advance, so all that’s left is popping them in the oven before dinner.
• Great for Leftovers: These shells reheat beautifully for an effortless next-day meal.
• Perfect for Entertaining: This dish is elegant enough for guests but easy enough for weeknights.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the filling:

• 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the shells and sauce:

• 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Pro Tips:

• Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: Both work great! If using frozen spinach, be sure to squeeze out all the excess liquid.
• Ricotta Texture: For an even creamier filling, blend the ricotta with a hand mixer before combining with the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
4. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Stuff each shell with about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture and place them in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the shells will continue to cook in the oven, keep them slightly firm when boiling.
• Use a Piping Bag: Fill a zip-top bag with the ricotta mixture, snip the corner, and pipe it into the shells for a mess-free filling process.
• Let It Rest: Allow the shells to sit for 5 minutes after baking before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes them easier to serve.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked and crumbled Italian sausage or shredded chicken for extra heartiness.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the filling or the marinara sauce for a little heat.
• Go Vegan: Swap the ricotta with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheese.
• Pairing Ideas: Serve these stuffed shells with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover, and freeze before baking. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45 minutes (covered) and then 10 minutes uncovered.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Microwave individual portions or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe Card

Give these stuffed shells a try, and let me know how they turn out! Tag your creation with #TheKitchensAid so I can see your delicious results. Happy cooking! 🍽️

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