Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite – Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This recipe takes ordinary ingredients and transforms them into a dish that’s as comforting as it is elegant. Picture jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a luscious blend of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tangy Parmesan cheeses, all mingling with fresh spinach, aromatic garlic, and Italian seasoning. Nestled in a cozy marinara bath and baked to bubbly perfection, these stuffed shells are a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.

What makes these Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells truly special is their versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner to please your family or a show-stopping dish to impress your guests, this recipe has got you covered. With just 45 minutes of total prep and cook time, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that’s both indulgent and vegetarian-friendly without breaking a sweat. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and watch as it becomes a staple on your dinner table, creating moments of shared joy and contentment with every forkful.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy ricotta filling with a flavor boost from garlic, Italian herbs, and three cheeses.
• Perfect balance of pasta, cheese, and sauce in every bite.
• Spinach adds color, nutrients, and a subtle earthy flavor.
• Can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

• Versatile Dish: Perfect for a weeknight family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, catering to various occasions.
• Easy and Quick: Ready in just 45 minutes with minimal hands-on time, providing a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle.
• Balanced Flavors: The creamy ricotta filling, tangy marinara sauce, and tender pasta shells offer a delightful balance in every bite.
• Nutrient-Rich: Fresh spinach adds color, nutrients, and a subtle earthy flavor to the dish.
• Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Can be assembled ahead of time, baked just before serving, and freezes beautifully for meal prep or gifting.
• Customizable Options: From adding sausage for a meaty twist to creating a herby summer version or a luxurious upgrade, the recipe offers versatile adaptations.
• Family Tradition: More than just a recipe, these stuffed shells have become a tradition, a comfort, and a way of sharing love through food, making them a special addition to any table.

Ingredients for Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Pasta

• 12–15 jumbo pasta shells (about 1/2 a box)

Filling

• 1 large egg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped) or 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce and Garnish

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Pro Tips for Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Pro Tip #1: For a creamier texture, opt for whole milk ricotta and fresh spinach over frozen. Squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to prevent a watery filling. To elevate the dish, add a pinch of nutmeg and lemon zest to the ricotta mixture for a subtle depth of flavor.

Pro Tip #2: To save time, use high-quality jarred marinara sauce. Rao’s Homemade and Muir Glen Organic are excellent choices. Cook the jumbo pasta shells slightly under, as they will finish cooking in the oven. To ensure a perfect melt, grate mozzarella cheese fresh and reserve a portion to add before baking for that signature stretchy finish.

Pro Tip #3: Make-ahead and freeze the dish for convenient meal prep. Assemble the shells but do not bake, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking as directed. To serve, pair the stuffed shells with a simple arugula salad, warm crusty bread, and a glass of Chianti for an exquisite Italian meal.

How to Make Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Step 01

Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and let cool before filling.

Step 2: Step 02

Combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg in a large mixing bowl. Mix well. Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add spinach and cook until wilted. Mix spinach mixture with cheese mixture, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Step 03

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Fill each cooked shell with approximately 2 tablespoons of ricotta-spinach mixture.
4. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer in the baking dish, open side up.

Step 4: Step 04

After stuffing the shells, pour the remaining marinara sauce over them and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for 10 more minutes. Allow to rest briefly before serving.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, storing them properly is essential to maintain their flavor and texture. If you have leftovers or want to prepare the dish ahead of time, you can store the assembled but unbaked stuffed shells in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply cover the dish and place it in the fridge until you are ready to bake it. When baking from a chilled state, remember to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the original baking time to ensure that the dish is heated through.

If you would like to freeze the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells for future enjoyment, assemble the dish but refrain from baking it. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The stuffed shells can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy them, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator before baking it according to the original recipe. This make-ahead option is convenient for meal prep or for sharing a comforting meal with friends or family in need.

Ingredient Substitutions

For ingredient substitutions in this Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe, you can try a few variations. If you don’t have jumbo pasta shells, you can substitute with regular-sized shells or any large pasta shape that can be stuffed. Similarly, if you’re out of ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. For a lactose-free option, consider using a dairy-free ricotta cheese alternative made from almonds or tofu.

In place of fresh spinach, frozen spinach that has been thawed and well-drained can be used as a convenient alternative. You can also experiment by mixing in other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking to add more depth to the dish, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes into the ricotta filling. Additionally, if you prefer a different cheese blend, feel free to swap the mozzarella or Parmesan with provolone, fontina, or asiago depending on your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try presenting the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells in individual mini cast-iron skillets for a charming and rustic touch. This not only makes for a visually appealing presentation but also keeps the dish warm and inviting for guests to dig into. Garnish each skillet with a sprig of fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness.

To elevate the classic comfort of the stuffed shells, consider serving them alongside a vibrant arugula and cherry tomato salad dressed with a balsamic vinaigrette. The peppery arugula and sweet tomatoes will provide a lovely contrast to the rich and creamy flavors of the pasta dish, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Pair this delightful combination with a glass of Chianti to enhance the Italian-inspired dining experience even further.

FAQs for Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach in this recipe. Make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture before incorporating it into the ricotta filling.

Can I substitute the marinara sauce with a different type of sauce?

While marinara sauce complements the flavors in this recipe well, you can certainly experiment with other sauces. A creamy béchamel sauce or a tomato basil sauce could be delicious alternatives to marinara.

Can I make these Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble the stuffed shells but refrain from baking them. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes of extra baking time.

How can I prevent the pasta shells from sticking or tearing during cooking?

To prevent the pasta shells from sticking or tearing, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the water while cooking them. This will help keep the shells separate and reduce the chances of them sticking together or tearing.

Conclusion

As you gather around the table to enjoy the delightful flavors of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, I hope this recipe brings as much joy and togetherness to your family and friends as it has to mine. The melding of creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and aromatic garlic nestled in pasta shells creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, these stuffed shells are sure to impress and satisfy.

So, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of these Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells whenever you’re craving a taste of Italy or looking to share a delicious meal with your loved ones. The simplicity of this recipe paired with its incredible flavors makes it a standout dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Embrace the process, enjoy the aromas wafting from your kitchen, and savor every bite of these delectable Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells – you won’t be disappointed.