Simple photo of Spinach and — Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells 9

Why Make This Recipe

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are not only delicious but also easy to make. This dish combines the rich flavors of cheese and spinach wrapped in tender pasta. It’s a perfect choice for a family meal, and it’s sure to impress your guests. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some nutritious greens!

How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Ingredients:

12 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup spinach, cooked and chopped
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg
1 jar marinara sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture and arrange in the baking dish.
Top the stuffed shells with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese if desired.
Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.

How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Serve these stuffed shells with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle extra parmesan or fresh herbs on top for added flavor.

How to Store Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente so they hold their shape when you stuff them.
Experiment with different cheeses if you want to change the flavor.
Add some garlic or onion to the cheese mixture for extra taste.

Serving Ideas

Consider serving the stuffed shells with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette. A slice of crusty garlic bread complements this dish well and makes for a hearty meal.

Simple photo of Spinach — Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells 10

Final Thoughts

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. They are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Give this recipe a try, and you won’t be disappointed!

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just cook it down until wilted and then chop it before adding it to the cheese mixture.

Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed shells before or after baking. Just ensure they are well-covered.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a substitute for ricotta. Just blend them for a smoother texture.