Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells

For the Stuffed Shells:

• 12-16 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained (or use fresh spinach if preferred)
• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Making Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells is simple and straightforward. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious and hearty meal:

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Spinach and Ricotta Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• If you’re using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan until wilted, then chop it finely before adding it to the ricotta mixture.

3. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

• In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce, garlic powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and simmer for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Stuff the Shells:

• Spoon a generous amount of the ricotta and spinach filling into each cooked pasta shell. Be careful not to overstuff them, as it can cause the filling to spill out while baking.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the dish.

5. Assemble and Bake:

• Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged in the baking dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells.
• Sprinkle the extra shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
• Bake the shells in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
• Remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a complete meal on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate the dish:

• Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve these stuffed shells with some warm, buttery garlic bread on the side to soak up the extra marinara sauce.
• Top with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can add a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
• Add a Side Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Serve with Extra Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top can elevate the flavor even further.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use High-Quality Ricotta: The quality of your ricotta cheese will make a noticeable difference in the flavor and texture of the dish. Opt for whole milk ricotta for a richer, creamier filling.
• Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: When cooking the pasta shells, make sure not to overcook them. Al dente shells hold their shape better and will absorb less sauce during baking.
• Drain the Spinach Well: If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to add extras to the filling, such as sautéed onions, garlic, or herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor.

Why You’ll Make This Recipe Again and Again

Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and loved by everyone. The creamy, cheesy filling combined with the rich marinara sauce is a winning combination that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, it’s an easy dish to make in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.

With its comforting flavors and simple ingredients, Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells will quickly become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or just craving a satisfying meal, this dish delivers on both taste and comfort.