Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the classic flavors of Italy with these Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This dish features jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, all topped with marinara sauce and baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a comforting weeknight meal, these stuffed shells are sure to please everyone at the table!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stuffed Shells
• For Garnish
• How to Make Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
• Step 3: Prepare the Filling
• Step 4: Assemble the Dish
• Step 5: Bake
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
• Family Dinner
• Special Occasions
• Meal Prep
• Lunch Box
• How to Perfect Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
• Best Side Dishes for Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
• Reheating Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is the best way to serve Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
• Can I prepare Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
• Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
• How can I make Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh spinach creates a rich and creamy filling that bursts with flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and busy families alike.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with a salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake, making dinner planning a breeze.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is meat-free, making it suitable for vegetarians while still being hearty and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delectable stuffed shells, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta shells evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing garlic and spinach quickly, enhancing their flavors before mixing.
• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving straight from the oven.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley

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How to Make Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your stuffed shells will cook evenly throughout.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente.
2. Drain the shells and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add spinach to the skillet; cook until wilted if using fresh or heated through if using frozen. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, nutmeg (if using), and the sautéed spinach mixture. Mix until well incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and spinach mixture.
3. Place them seam-side up in the baking dish.
4. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
3. Remove foil; bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish your stuffed shells with fresh basil or parsley before serving warm alongside garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Serving Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells can elevate your meal experience. These shells are not just delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for various occasions.

Family Dinner

• Serve the stuffed shells as a main course alongside a fresh salad and garlic bread for a comforting family dinner.

Special Occasions

• Present the dish on a beautiful platter garnished with fresh basil or parsley to impress guests at gatherings or celebrations.

Meal Prep

• Store individual portions in airtight containers for easy weeknight dinners. Reheat in the oven or microwave for convenience.

Lunch Box

• Pack leftovers in lunch boxes with a side of steamed vegetables for a tasty and nutritious work or school lunch option.

How to Perfect Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Perfecting your Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells can make all the difference in taste and presentation. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses enhance the flavor and texture of the filling.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the jumbo shells until al dente, as they will continue cooking while baking.
• Season Generously: Adjust salt and pepper levels in both the filling and marinara sauce for optimal flavor.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try adding different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for unique flavors.
• Cover While Baking: Covering the dish with foil during baking helps retain moisture and prevents drying out.
• Let It Rest: Allow the baked dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps set the filling and makes it easier to serve.

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Best Side Dishes for Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Pairing side dishes with Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells enhances your meal. Here are some great options that complement this Italian classic.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthful green element that’s easy to prepare.
6. Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses offers variety and excitement to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the salting step: Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland shells. Always add salt to your boiling water for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking shells too long makes them mushy. Aim for al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Not draining spinach properly: Excess moisture from spinach can make the filling watery. Squeeze out any excess liquid if using frozen spinach.
• Under-seasoning the filling: Failing to season the cheese mixture can result in a bland dish. Taste and adjust seasoning before stuffing the shells.
• Using low-quality marinara sauce: A good sauce elevates this recipe. Choose a flavorful marinara for the best taste experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Item: Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Duration: They last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

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

Reheating Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking regularly until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of water and cover; heat on low until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

Serve these stuffed shells warm with fresh basil or parsley on top. Pair them with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I prepare Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

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

How can I make Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure that any sauces used are meat-free.

Final Thoughts

Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells are not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Give it a try!