Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells – sweet dreams kitchen

In this easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe, you’ll discover how three cheeses blend beautifully with sautéed spinach inside jumbo pasta shells. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or any gathering. Whether you’re serving it on a cozy weeknight or at a festive occasion, these Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells will surely please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich, creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the fresh spinach.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can create this impressive dish without stress.
Versatile Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from casual dinners to special celebrations, making it a go-to recipe.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and low-fat cheeses, this dish offers nutrition without sacrificing taste.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and bake them when ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Baking dish (8-inch by 8-inch)
Pot for boiling pasta
Colander

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and spinach evenly, ensuring great flavor infusion.
Mixing bowl: Provides space to combine ingredients thoroughly without mess.
Baking dish: The right size ensures even cooking and proper sauce coverage for delicious results.

Ingredients

In this easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe, three cheeses combine with quick sautéed spinach and jumbo pasta shells for a hearty and comforting, crowd-pleasing vegetarian dinner.

For the Pasta Shells

16 jumbo pasta shells (Cook a couple of extra shells to allow for a few breaking while the pasta cooks.)

For the Filling

1-1/2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp fresh garlic, minced
4 cups (packed) fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
12 oz skim-milk ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded skim-milk mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1 large egg
1 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp freshly-ground black pepper

For the Sauce

1-1/4 cups marinara sauce

How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Cook the pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Spinach

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
* When the oil begins to shimmer, add the garlic.
* Cook until it begins to brown, about one to two minutes.

Add the spinach and cook while stirring occasionally.
* Continue until the leaves are wilted but still bright green, about three to four minutes.
* The spinach should reduce by half. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl:
* Stir together the spinach mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.

Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of your baking dish.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Stuff each pasta shell with a generous amount of the spinach and ricotta mixture. Place them in the baking dish.

Cover with remaining marinara sauce.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil; continue baking until the top is browned and sauce bubbles—about another 10-15 minutes. Serve warm with extra Parmesan dusting on top.

Enjoy your delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells!

How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Serving spinach and ricotta stuffed shells can elevate your dining experience, making it both delicious and visually appealing. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance your meal.

With a Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing pair well with the rich flavors of the stuffed shells.

With Garlic Bread

Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter complements the cheesy filling and marinara sauce perfectly.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add mozzarella on top before toasting for an extra cheesy treat.

With Steamed Vegetables

Seasonal Veggies: Lightly steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans can provide a colorful and nutritious side.
Roasted Veggies: Roasting vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness.

How to Perfect Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

To ensure your spinach and ricotta stuffed shells come out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta shells al dente; they will continue cooking in the oven.
Pack Filling Generously: Fill each shell generously to create a hearty bite that’s bursting with flavor.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or red pepper flakes for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Pairing side dishes with your spinach and ricotta stuffed shells can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic make a delightful accompaniment.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that complements the pasta dish.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil works as an excellent starter or side.
Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta adds creaminess that pairs beautifully with marinara sauce.
Grilled Asparagus: Simple grilled asparagus spears bring a touch of elegance to your dinner plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the best Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using overcooked pasta: Always cook your jumbo shells al dente. Overcooked pasta can break easily and won’t hold the stuffing well.
Not cooling spinach properly: If you don’t let the cooked spinach cool before mixing, it can make the cheese mixture watery. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to your cheese mixture. This step is crucial for enhancing flavor.
Overstuffing shells: Be generous, but avoid overstuffing each shell. Too much filling can cause them to burst while baking.
Neglecting the sauce: A good marinara sauce is essential. Don’t skimp on quality; it ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-5 days for best taste.

Freezing Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of marinara sauce to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions.

Can I use other types of cheese in Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for unique flavors.

Are Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep.

How do I know when my Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are done baking?

They should be bubbly around the edges with a lightly browned top when finished baking.

Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them in advance and refrigerate or freeze before baking. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adding various vegetables or using different cheeses based on your preferences. This hearty dish makes for a comforting dinner that everyone will love—give it a try!