Oh my goodness, you guys! If you’ve never tried making easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells, you’re in for a treat! This dish is one of my absolute favorites because it’s not only simple to whip up, but it’s also bursting with flavor and comfort. Picture this: jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, all smothered in rich marinara sauce and bubbling cheese on top. It’s the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell heavenly and leaves everyone at the table asking for seconds! I love that it’s vegetarian-friendly, too, making it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup chopped spinach (fresh is best!)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How to Prepare Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into making these delicious easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells! First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial because we want that oven nice and toasty when our stuffed shells go in!
While the oven is heating up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, gently add the 12 jumbo pasta shells. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes until they’re al dente; you want them firm enough to hold the filling. Drain the shells and let them cool a bit. No one likes burnt fingers!
Now, in a mixing bowl, let’s get that filling ready! Combine the 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of chopped spinach (trust me, fresh makes a big difference!), 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of grated parmesan, the egg, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix it all together until everything is well combined. This is where the magic starts!
Next, grab a baking dish and spread half of that lovely marinara sauce on the bottom. It’ll keep the shells from sticking and add extra flavor. Now, it’s time to stuff those shells! Take a spoonful of your cheesy mixture and fill each shell generously. Place them in the baking dish, open side up, and don’t be shy with that filling!
Once all the shells are snug in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Finish it off with the last bit of mozzarella cheese sprinkled on top. It’s about to get cheesy, and I’m here for it!
Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until everything’s bubbly and golden. Oh boy, the aroma will be heavenly! After they’re done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Healthy and delicious, packed with spinach and protein-rich ricotta.
- Crowd-pleaser! Everyone from kids to adults will rave about it.
- Customizable! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or veggies.
- One-dish wonder—less mess to clean up after a cozy dinner.
- Comfort food at its best, with gooey cheese and savory marinara.
- Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better the next day!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells turn out perfectly every time! Here are some of my best tips to help you along the way:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: It’s so tempting to leave those shells in the boiling water longer, but remember, they’ll cook a bit more in the oven. Aim for al dente; this keeps them sturdy enough to hold that delicious filling!
- Season your filling: I can’t stress this enough! Give your ricotta mixture a taste before stuffing. If you think it needs a little extra zing, don’t hesitate to add more garlic powder or a dash of salt and pepper. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor, too!
- Use quality marinara: Since the sauce is a big part of this dish, choose one you love! A homemade sauce or a good quality jar can make a world of difference in taste.
- Let it rest: After baking, resist the urge to dig in right away! Letting the stuffed shells sit for about 5-10 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to serve.
- Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to get creative! You can add sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even some cooked ground meat if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember to adjust the amount of ricotta accordingly if you add more ingredients.
- Leftover love: If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They taste even better the next day, so don’t skip reheating for a quick lunch or dinner!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a stuffed shell pro in no time! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! Each serving of these easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells packs in some tasty goodness. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 18g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use and any additional toppings or variations you choose to add. But one thing’s for sure: you’re in for a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!
FAQ Section
Got questions? No worries! Here are some of the most common ones I get about these easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells, and I’m here to help you out!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can substitute it with cottage cheese for a similar texture. You could also mix in some goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist!
What if I don’t have jumbo shells?
Don’t fret! You can use any pasta shape you have on hand, like manicotti or even bowtie pasta. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make for a perfect quick lunch! Just reheat in the microwave or oven.
Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
Yes! You can freeze them before baking. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed!
What can I add to the filling for extra flavor?
Feel free to get creative! You can add sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even some sun-dried tomatoes. Just remember to adjust the amount of ricotta so it all fits!
Can I make these shells ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prep them a day in advance and just cover them tightly in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, pop them in the oven and bake!
Hopefully, these answers help you on your culinary adventure! If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out! Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells fresh out of the oven, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them for the ultimate meal experience! I love pairing these cheesy delights with something light and refreshing to balance out all that flavor. Here are some of my top picks:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce left on your plate.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a fresh crunch that complements the richness of the stuffed shells. Toss in some cucumbers or avocado for an extra touch!
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring a lovely caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cheesy filling.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a delightful side dish that echoes the Italian theme.
- Steamed Broccoli: If you want to keep it super simple and healthy, steamed broccoli or green beans add a pop of color and nutrients!
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions or get creative with your own favorites! The beauty of this dish is that it’s versatile enough to shine alongside a variety of sides. Enjoy your meal, and happy dining!
Print
Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Comfort
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are a delicious and simple dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions and drain.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, spinach, 1/2 cup mozzarella, parmesan, egg, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
- Feel free to add herbs to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Use fresh spinach for a better taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells