Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Category: Inspiring Dinner Ideas

Cook shells, mix cheeses with spinach and seasonings, stuff shells, top with sauce, and bake for 35 minutes. Makes 12 cheesy shells.
Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Wed, 19 Feb 2025 12:14:20 GMT
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Transform classic Italian comfort food into a memorable meal with these Ricotta Stuffed Shells. Each pasta shell cradles a perfect blend of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and Italian cheeses, all embraced by rich marinara sauce. This vegetarian dish delivers restaurant-quality results while remaining surprisingly simple to prepare.

During my time in Italian kitchens, I learned that the secret to perfect stuffed shells lies in the quality of ricotta and the careful balance of seasonings. The first time I served these to my family, they couldn't believe they weren't from our favorite Italian restaurant.

Essential Ingredients Guide

  • Jumbo Shells: Choose quality pasta that holds its shape
  • Ricotta: Fresh, whole milk ricotta provides the best texture
  • Spinach: Fresh leaves add color and nutrients
  • Mozzarella: Fresh cheese creates the perfect melt
  • Marinara: Use homemade or quality jarred sauce
  • Garlic: Fresh cloves enhance the filling's flavor

Creating Perfect Shells

Prepare The Pasta:
Cook shells al dente to maintain structure.
Mix The Filling:
Combine cheeses and seasonings until smooth.
Fill With Care:
Pipe or spoon filling generously into each shell.
Layer With Sauce:
Create base of marinara before adding shells.
Bake To Perfection:
Watch for golden, bubbly cheese topping.
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My Italian grandmother always said, 'The ricotta tells you when it's ready.' After years of making this dish, I understand exactly what she meant.

Enhance Your Meal

Serve alongside garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted Italian vegetables. A glass of Chianti complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Creative Variations

Transform this dish by adding fresh herbs, incorporating different cheese combinations, or using alternative greens like kale. For added protein, consider mixing in Italian sausage.

Storage Success

Store assembled, unbaked shells covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Once baked, leftovers keep well for three days and can be gently reheated in the oven.

Through countless iterations in my kitchen, I've found that these stuffed shells represent the perfect balance of tradition and accessibility. When each element is prepared with care, the result is a comforting meal that brings joy to any table.

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Common Questions About Cooking

→ Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, cover and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time.
→ Can I freeze these shells?
Freeze unbaked shells for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
→ Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, use ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained, instead of fresh.
→ Why are my shells breaking?
Don't overcook the pasta - keep it al dente and handle gently when stuffing.
→ What can I serve with this?
Serve with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Jumbo pasta shells filled with three cheeses and spinach, topped with marinara sauce for a classic Italian comfort dinner.

Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Duration
35 minutes
Total Time Required
55 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Dinner Delights

Skill Level Required: Moderate Skills Needed

Cuisine Style: Italian

Recipe Output: 4 Number of Servings (12 stuffed shells)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Gather

→ Pasta

Contains 01 items 12 jumbo pasta shells

→ Cheese Filling

Contains 02 items 1½ cups ricotta cheese
Contains 03 items 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
Contains 04 items ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
Contains 05 items 1 large egg
Contains 06 items ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

→ Vegetables and Aromatics

Contains 07 items 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
Contains 08 items 2 cloves garlic, minced
Contains 09 items 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Sauce and Seasonings

Contains 10 items 2 cups marinara sauce
Contains 11 items Salt and pepper to taste
Contains 12 items Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta shells until al dente

Step 02

Sauté garlic in olive oil, add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper

Step 03

Combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, nutmeg, and spinach mixture

Step 04

Spread marinara in baking dish, stuff shells with cheese mixture, top with remaining sauce and cheese

Step 05

Cover and bake 25 minutes, uncover and bake 10 more minutes until bubbly. Garnish with herbs

Important Tips

  1. Add red pepper flakes for heat. Pairs well with salad or garlic bread

Essential Tools

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Aluminum foil

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains wheat

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 465
  • Fat Amount: 27 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Protein Amount: 27 g