If you’re in the mood for a comforting, cheesy dish that feels like a warm hug, look no further than these Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells. This recipe combines tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a luscious mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs, all baked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella. It’s a delicious way to incorporate more greens into your meals while satisfying your pasta cravings. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, these stuffed shells are sure to impress!

Reasons to Love Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells

There are so many reasons to adore Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells! Here are just a few:

Flavorful Filling: The ricotta cheese pairs beautifully with the fresh spinach and herbs, creating a rich, creamy filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Simple Ingredients: With straightforward and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this dish without any fuss.
Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for vegetarians, making it a versatile option for family meals.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance, making it a great choice for busy weeknights!
Comfort Food: There’s something so comforting about cheesy pasta dishes; they never fail to put a smile on your face.

What Goes Into Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells

To create these delightful Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells, you will need the following ingredients:

24 jumbo shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
4 cups fresh spinach
2 cups ricotta cheese
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground pepper
½ teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
2 cups jarred marinara sauce, divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, optional for garnishing

Equipment & Tools

For this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

Large Pot: For cooking the jumbo pasta shells.
Skillet: To sauté the garlic and spinach.
Baking Dish: To hold the stuffed shells while they bake.
Mixing Bowl: To combine the filling ingredients.
Wooden Spoon: For mixing and filling the shells.

Cook Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells Like This

Follow these simple steps to create your Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Sauté the Spinach

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded parmesan cheese, egg, cooked spinach and garlic mixture, salt, pepper, parsley, basil, and oregano. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Fill the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a baking dish. Using a spoon, fill each cooked jumbo shell with the ricotta and spinach filling, and place them in the baking dish.

Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Once all the shells are filled and arranged in the baking dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy your Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

These Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells are versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. Here are some ideas for variations or sides to complement the dish:

Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as roasted zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor.
Swap out the spinach for other greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different taste.
Serve with a side salad topped with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Pair with garlic bread for a classic Italian touch.

Behind the Recipe

This Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells recipe is inspired by traditional Italian cuisine, where pasta is often filled with a variety of delicious ingredients. The combination of creamy ricotta with fresh spinach creates a filling that’s both satisfying and nutritious. This dish offers a delightful way to gather around the table and share a meal with loved ones, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you want to save time during busy weeknights, you can prepare these stuffed shells ahead of time. Here’s how:

Prepare the Filling: You can make the ricotta and spinach filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Assemble the Dish: Stuff the shells and place them in the baking dish up to 24 hours ahead. Cover with plastic wrap until ready to bake.
Leftovers: Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Keep Cooking

If you enjoyed this Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells recipe, here are some more delightful dishes you might want to try:

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make these delicious Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells! This dish is as rewarding to make as it is to eat, and it will surely become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!

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