Imagine digging into a plate of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, where each bite is a warm embrace of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and tangy marinara sauce. The aroma wafting from the oven is like a culinary hug that says, “You deserve this.” This dish is not just food; it’s a comforting experience that dances on your palate.
Now, picture yourself at a cozy dinner with friends or family, laughter echoing around the table as you serve these delightful shells. They are perfect for any gathering, be it a casual weeknight dinner or a festive occasion. Trust me, this Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe will make you the star of the evening, leaving everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The preparation is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for special occasions.
- Its rich flavor profile combines creamy ricotta and savory spinach with zesty marinara sauce.
- Visually, the dish is an enticing masterpiece with vibrant green filling peeking through the golden shells.
- Plus, they are versatile; you can easily customize them with different fillings or sauces to suit your taste!
Ingredients for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Jumbo Pasta Shells: These extra-large shells are perfect for holding in all that cheesy goodness. Look for high-quality pasta to ensure they don’t break during cooking.
Fresh Spinach: Use baby spinach for its tender texture. You can also substitute frozen spinach; just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture.
Ricotta Cheese: Choose whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it gives the filling that rich texture we all crave.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan delivers more flavor than pre-grated alternatives. It adds depth to your filling and topping.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality store-bought sauce works wonders here, or you can whip up a homemade version if you’re feeling adventurous!
For seasoning:
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish. Mince it finely for the best distribution in the filling.
Salt & Pepper: Basic yet essential; season according to your preference to enhance all flavors involved.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them gently and let them cool slightly while preparing your filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach), minced garlic, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is nicely blended into a cheesy green wonder.
Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
While you’re mixing up that heavenly filling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your favorite baking dish and spread some marinara sauce on the bottom—this prevents sticking and adds flavor!
Step 4: Stuff Those Shells
Now comes the fun part! Carefully stuff each cooked shell with about one tablespoon of your spinach and ricotta mixture. Place them in the baking dish open side up like little cheesy boats ready for adventure.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Toppings
Once all shells are snugly nestled in their marinara bed, pour more sauce over them generously. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top—because who doesn’t love extra cheese?
Step 6: Bake Away
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) to keep those flavors locked in. Bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional five minutes until bubbly and golden.
Transfer to plates and serve hot! Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every spoonful of this flavorful journey!
You Must Know
- This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy ricotta with fresh spinach, all wrapped in delightful pasta shells.
- Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you boil the pasta shells until al dente, about 8 minutes. Then, prepare the filling with sautéed spinach and ricotta, stuff the shells, and top with marinara sauce before baking to perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or add some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, or use different cheeses for added richness.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure the pasta shells are slightly undercooked to prevent them from becoming mushy when baked.
- Always taste your ricotta mixture; it should be well-seasoned before stuffing.
- Don’t forget to cover your dish with foil during baking to keep it moist!
Sometimes, I whip up this Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe when friends come over. Their reactions are priceless—everyone insists I should open a restaurant! It’s moments like these that make cooking so rewarding.
FAQs
What is the best way to cook Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
Cooking Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells involves a few simple steps. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by spreading a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Stuff cooked pasta shells with the spinach and ricotta mixture, place them in the dish, and cover with more sauce. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly. This method ensures that the shells are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Can I make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells in advance which is perfect for busy days. Assemble the dish as directed but do not bake it. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, just pop it into the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it comes straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells pair beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving them with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette or garlic bread for a comforting meal. You can also add steamed vegetables like broccoli or zucchini for added nutrition. These sides enhance the overall dining experience while balancing the richness of the stuffed shells.
Are there any variations of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
Absolutely! You can customize your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe by adding ingredients like cooked ground meat, fresh herbs, or different cheeses such as mozzarella or feta. For a lighter option, consider using whole wheat shells or substituting part of the ricotta with cottage cheese. These variations allow you to experiment while still enjoying the basic flavors of this classic dish.
Conclusion for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
In conclusion, making delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells is an excellent way to enjoy a comforting meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. By following this recipe, you will create flavorful stuffed shells that are easy to prepare ahead of time. Customize your dish with various ingredients for added variety. With just a few simple steps, you can impress family and friends alike with this delightful Italian-inspired dish!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a comforting and delicious dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Each jumbo shell is filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and garlic, then topped with zesty marinara sauce and baked to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe not only delights the taste buds but also impresses guests, making it an ideal choice for any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (3 shells per serving) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the jumbo shells until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and cool.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, minced garlic, half of the Parmesan, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and spread marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Fill each shell with about one tablespoon of the filling and place in the dish open side up.
- Pour remaining marinara over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor, mix in herbs like basil or sun-dried tomatoes. Frozen spinach can be used; ensure it's well-drained before adding to the filling. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
