Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are like the warm, comforting hug you never knew you needed. Picture this: plump pasta shells cradling a creamy filling of ricotta and spinach, all swimming in a luscious marinara sauce. vegan sheet pan dinner As the aroma wafts through your kitchen, you can almost hear taste buds singing in unison. This dish is a celebration of flavors and textures, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a casual get-together.
I remember the first time I served Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells to my friends. They gathered around the table, forks poised with anticipation, and after the first bite, their eyes widened with delight. It was one of those moments where you feel like a culinary superstar, even if the secret was just using good ingredients and a sprinkle of love. Trust me; this dish will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The combination of flavors creates a delightful experience for your taste buds
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress at any table setting
- Versatile enough to customize fillings based on preferences makes it a family favorite!
I once made these stuffed shells for an impromptu dinner party that turned into an unforgettable night filled with laughter and compliments.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Pasta Shells: Choose high-quality shells; they should hold up well during cooking and provide a sturdy vessel for stuffing.
- Ricotta Cheese: Opt for fresh ricotta for creaminess; it elevates the overall texture wonderfully.
- Fresh Spinach: Use baby spinach for its tender leaves; it wilts beautifully when cooked and adds vibrant color.
- Marinara Sauce: Look for a store-bought version or homemade sauce packed with flavor; it’s essential for that comforting layer. hearty beef bourguignon.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds rich umami flavor; don’t skimp here—it makes all the difference!
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic depth; be generous if you love garlic as much as I do! For more inspiration, check out this cheesy garlic chicken wraps recipe.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste preference.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil elevates richness and balances flavors throughout the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all your ingredients on the countertop so everything is within reach—this will save time later.
Cook Your Pasta Shells: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells until al dente—about 8-10 minutes should do it. Drain them carefully and set aside while they cool slightly.
Make Your Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach (which you can sauté lightly if desired), grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended—your filling should look creamy green perfection!
Stuff Those Shells!: Take each pasta shell and lovingly fill them with about 1-2 tablespoons of your cheese mixture. Don’t worry if some filling peeks out—it just means more cheesy goodness!
Layer With Marinara Sauce: Spread half of your marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Place stuffed shells on top in a single layer before drizzling remaining sauce over them generously.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Afterward, remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbling hot and golden brown on top—this is when your kitchen will smell heavenly.
Serve With Love!: Once baked to perfection, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra grated parmesan or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for that Instagram-worthy touch!
Enjoy these Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells while cozying up on your couch or sharing laughs around the dinner table—either way, they are bound to steal hearts (and stomachs) everywhere!
You Must Know
- This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a delicious hug on a plate
- The creamy filling and savory marinara create an irresistible combination, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests
- Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as you cook!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To ensure your stuffed shells are cooked to perfection, boil the pasta first, then prepare the ricotta filling while it cools. Bake them in marinara sauce for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out spinach for kale or adding sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor boost. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or chili flakes for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain that gooey cheese texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To prevent shells from breaking, handle them gently and avoid overcooking
- Using fresh herbs elevates the flavor significantly; consider basil or parsley
- Always taste your filling before stuffing—seasoning is key!
Sharing this recipe with friends at a cozy dinner party was a hit; they went back for seconds and thirds, leaving me with empty plates and happy hearts. soft fluffy dinner rolls.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese in this Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe?
For more inspiration, check out this spinach cheese swirls recipe.
Absolutely! Try mixing mozzarella or goat cheese for added creaminess and flavor.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta shells instead of regular ones; they work just as well!
What can I serve alongside stuffed shells?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with stuffed shells, enhancing your meal experience! pair with a veggie-loaded soup.
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a delightful blend of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and savory marinara sauce, all nestled in tender pasta shells. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, promising to impress with its vibrant flavors and inviting aroma. Easy to prepare and customizable, these stuffed shells are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and let cool.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Fill each shell with 1-2 tablespoons of the filling.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish and arrange stuffed shells on top. Drizzle remaining sauce over the shells.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg