Created on July 27th, 2025 at 01:10 pm
Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
✨ A cozy, crowd-pleasing Italian classic — with creamy ricotta, garlicky spinach, and melty mozzarella nestled in tender pasta shells.
⏱️ Time Breakdown:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4–5
📝 Ingredients List:
- 12–15 jumbo pasta shells (about ½ a box)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped) or 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Boil shells in salted water until just al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
Drain and set aside to cool slightly. Don’t overcook — they’ll finish baking in the oven!
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Ricotta
- ½ cup mozzarella
- Parmesan
- Egg
Sauté garlic in olive oil over medium heat (about 30 seconds), then stir in chopped spinach. Cook until wilted 🌿 (~2–3 min). Let cool, then mix into the ricotta blend. Season with Italian herbs, salt & pepper.
Step 3: Fill and Arrange the Shells
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spoon 1 cup marinara into a 9×13 baking dish.
Stuff each shell with 2 tbsp of filling and place seam-up into the dish.
Top with remaining sauce and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella 🧀.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Uncover and bake another 10 minutes — until golden, bubbly, and irresistible.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil 🌱.
Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
💡 Pro Tips
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Stuff and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance or freeze before baking.
- Easy Swaps: Use kale, arugula, or mushrooms in place of spinach.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells.
- Serve It Fancy: Plate with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a basil sprig for a dinner party-worthy dish.
📊 Nutrition Info:
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 plate | 420 | 18g | 35g | 22g | 4g | 6g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
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