Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is a delightful dish that brings comfort food to your table. This recipe combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal on a chilly evening or a tasty option for vegetarians, these stuffed shells are sure to impress everyone. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach creates a flavorful filling that is hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Meal: Serve these shells as a main course or side dish; they pair wonderfully with salads and garlic bread.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the fridge for easy reheating later.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love cheesy pasta dishes, making this recipe a hit with the whole family.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation and cooking times.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon for mixing
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden top.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients comfortably, preventing messes.
Ingredients
Spinach-and-ricotta-stuffed shells deliver everything you love about comfort food — rich flavors, creamy textures, and the satisfaction of a homemade meal.
For the Pasta Shells
- 12–15 jumbo pasta shells (about 1/2 a box)
For the Cheese Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
For the Spinach Mixture
- 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped) or 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
For Assembly
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffed shells cook evenly and become perfectly bubbly.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the jumbo pasta shells.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the shells and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
- Take each cooked shell and fill it with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture.
- Place each stuffed shell in a greased baking dish.
Step 5: Assemble with Marinara Sauce
- Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake the Dish
Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells!
How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells make a delightful main dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
With a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad, featuring arugula, spinach, and other fresh greens tossed with vinaigrette.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan for a classic touch.
Pairing with Garlic Bread
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter, perfect for dipping into marinara sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Slices of baguette topped with garlic butter and melted mozzarella cheese for extra flavor.
Topping Options
- Fresh Basil: Add a sprinkle of chopped basil for a burst of freshness that complements the flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate extra Parmesan over the top before serving for added richness and texture.
Wine Pairing
- Chianti: This Italian red wine pairs beautifully with the flavors of marinara and cheese.
- Pinot Grigio: A crisp white wine that enhances the richness of the stuffed shells without overpowering them.
How to Perfect Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
To make your spinach and ricotta stuffed shells truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses to elevate the flavor profile.
- Pre-cook Pasta Shells: Slightly undercook your pasta shells to prevent them from becoming too soft when baking.
- Drain Spinach Well: If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture in your filling.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; proper seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors in your dish.
Best Side Dishes for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Complement your spinach and ricotta stuffed shells with these tasty side dishes that balance the meal perfectly.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients and color while keeping things simple.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto can be flavored with herbs or lemon to complement the richness of the stuffed shells.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers variety.
- Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles can serve as a low-carb alternative or a fun twist on pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe, be mindful of these common mistakes.
- Overcooking the pasta: Jumbo shells should be al dente. Cook them just until slightly firm so they don’t fall apart when you fill them.
- Not draining spinach properly: Excess moisture can make your filling watery. Ensure fresh spinach is well-dried or frozen spinach is thoroughly drained before mixing.
- Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your ricotta mixture. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances the flavor, making your dish more enjoyable.
- Filling shells too loosely: Ensure you pack the shells with enough filling without overstuffing. This prevents them from falling apart during baking.
- Neglecting the sauce layer: Always spread marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. This keeps the shells moist and adds extra flavor as they cook.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Place assembled but uncooked stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking periodically.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat with a splash of water or sauce, covering until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of cheese for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe?
The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides a creamy texture and delicious flavor. Mozzarella adds stretchiness while Parmesan gives it a nice salty kick.
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen spinach works great as long as it’s thawed and well-drained before mixing it into your filling.
How do I customize my Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe?
You can add cooked sausage or chicken for protein, or mix in different herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.
How do I prevent my stuffed shells from sticking together?
Ensure there is enough marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish, which helps keep each shell moist and separates them during cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients to suit your taste. Try this delightful dish tonight; it’s sure to impress family and friends!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Indulge in the irresistible comfort of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a delightful dish that brings together creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to satisfy both vegetarians and pasta lovers alike. With the option to make ahead, these cheesy shells are an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Each bite promises a burst of flavor and warmth, making it a favorite at any table.
Ingredients
- 12–15 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped) or 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture and place in a greased baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
