Creamy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food that beautifully combines tender pasta shells with a luscious, cheesy spinach filling. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. With a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses mixed with fresh spinach and aromatic seasonings, each bite delivers rich, satisfying flavors. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing any taste. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is straightforward, requiring simple ingredients and minimal fuss.

Top Reasons to Make Creamy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

• Deliciously creamy: The ricotta and mozzarella blend creates a dreamy, smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
• Veggie-packed: Fresh spinach adds a nutrient boost without overwhelming the flavors.
• Easy to prepare: This recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite cheeses or add herbs for extra flavor.
• Family favorite: It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.
• Great for make-ahead meals: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready for a stress-free dinner.
• Perfect pairing: Goes wonderfully with a side of Easy Garlic Bread to soak up every bit of sauce.

What Goes In

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg (for binding)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Appliances & Accessories

• Large pot – to boil the jumbo pasta shells
• Colander – for draining the pasta
• Mixing bowl – to combine the filling ingredients
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works well) – for assembling and baking the shells
• Spoon or small spatula – to stuff the shells with the ricotta mixture
• Aluminum foil – to cover the dish during baking

Stepwise Method: Creamy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Cook the jumbo pasta shells

Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Gently add the jumbo shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil to keep them from sticking together. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the creamy spinach ricotta filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups ricotta cheese, 1 cup chopped fresh spinach, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated parmesan, and 1 egg. Season with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The egg helps bind the filling so it stays inside the shells during baking.

Step 3: Stuff the shells

Take each cooked pasta shell and gently fill it with the ricotta-spinach mixture using a spoon or small spatula. Fill each shell generously but carefully to avoid tearing the pasta. Place the stuffed shells open side up in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Add marinara sauce and assemble

Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the arranged stuffed shells. This sauce adds moisture and flavor as the shells bake. For an extra creamy twist, feel free to add a drizzle of Alfredo Sauce Recipe mixed with the marinara for a rich, velvety finish.

Step 5: Bake until bubbly and golden

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese on top to turn golden and bubbly. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Better-for-You Options

• Use low-fat ricotta and mozzarella cheese to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
• Substitute whole wheat jumbo shells for extra fiber.
• Add finely chopped kale or Swiss chard along with the spinach for more vitamins and minerals.
• Use homemade marinara sauce or a low-sodium store-bought version to control salt content.
• Swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) for an egg-free alternative.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

• Shells sticking together: Toss cooked shells in olive oil immediately after draining to keep them separate.
• Filling too runny: Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the spinach before mixing it with the cheese to prevent watery filling.
• Shells tearing while stuffing: Handle the pasta shells gently and don’t overfill them.
• Dry baked shells: Ensure enough sauce covers the shells before baking to keep them moist and creamy.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This recipe is perfect for preparing ahead of time. Assemble the stuffed shells in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to eat, bake as directed, but add 5-10 extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge to ensure thorough heating. You can also freeze the assembled dish (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual for a quick and convenient meal.

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells Q&A

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing it into the cheese filling. This prevents the filling from becoming watery.

Is it necessary to boil the jumbo shells before stuffing?

Yes, boiling the shells until al dente is important because it softens them enough to stuff without breaking. Uncooked shells won’t soften properly in the oven and will result in a tough texture.

Can I add meat to the filling?

Absolutely! Cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken can be mixed into the ricotta filling for a heartier dish. Just make sure the meat is fully cooked and drained before adding.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Creamy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Keep Cooking

• Looking for another crowd-pleasing dinner? Try this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake – packed with cheesy goodness and veggies.
• Want a sauce to pair with your pastas? Check out this easy Alfredo Sauce Recipe that’s rich, creamy, and ready in minutes.
• Don’t forget to add a side of Easy Garlic Bread for a perfect complement to any Italian-inspired meal.

Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s make this comforting, cheesy dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Creamy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells are an incredible way to enjoy a homemade meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for sharing or meal prepping, this recipe brings warmth and flavor to your table with every bite.

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells deliver a rich blend of flavors and textures that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. From the tender jumbo shells to the creamy filling and savory marinara sauce, every element works harmoniously to create a dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic Italian-inspired meal with a nutritious twist. Enjoy!

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