Introduction
If you are looking for a recipe that is cheesy, creamy, and full of flavor, then spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are a perfect choice. This dish is a favorite Italian-style meal that can be enjoyed by families, friends, or even just for a cozy dinner at home. The pasta shells are filled with a rich mixture of ricotta cheese and spinach, then baked in tomato sauce with lots of melted cheese on top.
The best part? It looks fancy, but it is very simple to make. You don’t need to be a professional chef to prepare it. With some basic ingredients and easy steps, you can make this delicious recipe in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to add vegetables like spinach to your meal in a fun and tasty way. So, let’s jump into the recipe for spinach and ricotta stuffed shells!
Ingredients – Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Here is a list of everything you will need:
- Large pasta shells – 20 to 25 pieces
- Ricotta cheese – 2 cups
- Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups (shredded)
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup (grated)
- Fresh spinach – 4 cups (chopped)
- Egg – 1 large (to bind the filling)
- Garlic – 2 cloves (minced)
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Marinara sauce or pasta sauce – 3 cups
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Fresh basil (optional) – for garnish
Step by Step Process – Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Follow these simple steps to prepare this yummy dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of water to boil.
- Add a pinch of salt and cook the pasta shells until they are just soft (al dente).
- Drain the water and set the shells aside. Be careful not to overcook them, or they may break while stuffing.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Mixture
- Heat olive oil in a pan and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted (soft). Remove from heat and let it cool a little.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling
- In a large bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, spinach mixture, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir until all ingredients are well combined. This will be your stuffing mixture.
Step 4: Stuff the Pasta Shells
- Take one pasta shell at a time and carefully fill it with 1 to 2 tablespoons of the spinach and ricotta mixture.
- Place the stuffed shells on a plate or tray.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells neatly on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake the Dish
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil if you like.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious spinach and ricotta stuffed shells!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
| Calcium | 220 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! You can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out all the extra water before mixing it with the ricotta cheese.
Q2: What sauce works best for stuffed shells?
Marinara sauce is the most common, but you can also use tomato basil sauce, arrabbiata sauce (for a spicy kick), or even Alfredo sauce for a creamy version.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day before, cover them with plastic wrap, and keep them in the refrigerator. When ready, just bake them as directed.
Q4: Can I freeze spinach and ricotta stuffed shells?
Yes, they freeze very well. You can either freeze them before baking or after baking. To reheat, bake them in the oven until warmed through.
Q5: What can I serve with stuffed shells?
They go well with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are the kind of meal that makes everyone happy. They are cheesy, filling, and full of flavor. What makes them even better is that they are simple to prepare, and you can customize them with your favorite sauces or extra veggies.
This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or just when you want to treat yourself to a comforting meal. With every bite, you get the creamy taste of ricotta, the freshness of spinach, and the goodness of baked pasta covered in rich sauce and melted cheese.
So, the next time you want to cook something delicious and impressive, give these spinach and ricotta stuffed shells a try. Your family and friends will surely love it!
