Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe delivers a delightful combination of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and savory marinara. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings with friends. The comforting flavors and simple preparation make it a favorite among home cooks and food lovers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and straightforward steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The rich combination of cheeses and fresh spinach provides a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
- Versatile Dish: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, such as other veggies or different herbs.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells can be made ahead of time and frozen, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Crowd-Pleasing Option: With its cheese-filled goodness, this dish is sure to impress family and friends at any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking of your stuffed shells while holding all the delicious fillings.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring each shell is packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 12–15 jumbo pasta shells (about 1/2 a box)
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly 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 freshly ground black pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stuffed shells cook evenly once they are placed in the oven.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook them according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Ricotta cheese
2. Half of the shredded mozzarella cheese
3. Grated Parmesan cheese
4. Egg
5. Chopped spinach
6. Minced garlic
7. Italian seasoning
8. Salt and pepper
Mix everything until well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon, fill each cooked jumbo shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Place each stuffed shell seam-side up in a baking dish.
Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to become bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
After baking, let your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you enjoy them on a cozy night in or at a festive gathering, here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the rich stuffed shells perfectly.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a refreshing contrast to the warm pasta dish.
Add Bread for Dipping
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is ideal for scooping up any extra marinara sauce.
- Focaccia: Soft focaccia bread brings an Italian touch that pairs beautifully with the stuffed shells.
Garnish with Herbs
- Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves adds color and enhances the flavor profile.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan on top provides an extra layer of richness.
Serve with Wine
- Red Wine: A light red wine, like Chianti, complements the flavors well.
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc offers a refreshing balance to the creamy filling.
How to Perfect Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
To make your spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe truly shine, consider these helpful tips.
- Boldly season your spinach: Adding salt and pepper while cooking spinach enhances its flavor.
- Mix cheeses thoroughly: Ensure that the ricotta and mozzarella blend well for an even texture throughout the dish.
- Don’t overcook pasta shells: Cook them al dente so they hold their shape when stuffed and baked.
- Layer your marinara sauce: Spread some sauce on the bottom of the baking dish before adding shells for extra moisture.
- Cover while baking: Using foil for part of the baking time prevents drying out while allowing cheese to melt perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Serving side dishes alongside spinach and ricotta stuffed shells can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that pair wonderfully with this Italian classic.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with garlic makes a healthy accompaniment.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition without overpowering flavors.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cured meats, and cheeses provides variety for guests.
- Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative to pasta.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto is luxurious and pairs well with the stuffed shells’ flavors.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil adds a fresh burst of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or Italian seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your filling and adjust the seasonings before stuffing the shells.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the shells too long makes them mushy and difficult to fill. Cook them just until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Not draining spinach properly: If using frozen spinach, failing to drain it well can make your filling watery. Ensure all excess moisture is removed for a creamy texture.
- Using low-quality cheese: Substituting with cheap cheese affects both flavor and texture. Opt for fresh ricotta and high-quality mozzarella for the best results.
- Ignoring baking time: Overbaking can dry out your stuffed shells. Keep an eye on them and remove from the oven when bubbly and golden.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Place stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of marinara sauce, cover, and heat over low until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by ensuring all cheeses used are made without animal rennet.
Can I use other types of cheese in Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to mix in cheeses like feta or goat cheese for added flavor.
How do I ensure my Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is creamy?
Make sure you use full-fat ricotta and drain any excess moisture from spinach before mixing.
Can I prepare Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them the night before, store them in the fridge, and bake them when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or different herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish brings comfort food right to your table. Try making it today!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe, a delightful dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and savory marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings with friends, this recipe is simple to prepare and will surely impress your guests. Filled with cheesy goodness and topped with melted mozzarella, each bite offers a satisfying blend of flavors that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Plus, it’s versatile enough to allow for customization with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Make ahead and freeze for an effortless weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
- 12–15 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach or 1 cup frozen spinach
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each pasta shell with the mixture and place seam-side up in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over shells and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; uncover for the last 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell (100g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
