When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s a plate of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe that instantly transports me to my grandma’s kitchen. The aroma wafting through the air, the satisfying crunch of the cheesy topping, and the vibrant colors all combine into one heavenly experience. Lemon Ricotta French Toast Every bite bursts with flavor and warmth, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Now, picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and your family is huddled around the dinner table. You serve up these delightful stuffed shells, and suddenly, the conversation flows as freely as the marinara sauce you poured over them. Marry Me Chicken Recipe Smiles abound as everyone digs in—this is not just food; it’s love on a plate. Whether you’re prepping for a fancy dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. For more inspiration, check out this air fryer chicken recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are easy to make and perfect for any occasion
- The rich flavors meld beautifully together for a satisfying meal
- Visually stunning with bright greens and creamy whites, they are sure to catch eyes at any dinner table
- They can be customized easily to fit different dietary needs or personal tastes
I remember the first time I made this recipe for my family; their delighted reactions were priceless as they devoured every last shell. For more inspiration, check out this healthy zucchini recipes recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: Look for larger shells that can hold ample filling; don’t skip this crucial size!
- Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green spinach leaves; it adds both nutrition and color.
- Ricotta Cheese: Opt for creamy ricotta for a smooth texture—trust me; it’s worth it. Creamy Broccoli Potato Soup.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for a sharper taste that elevates your dish.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Garlic Powder: This adds depth; fresh garlic works too if you prefer its robust flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs will give your shells an aromatic touch that’s hard to resist.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors—don’t forget these little guys!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook Those Shells!: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them gently and set aside on a towel to cool slightly.
Sauté That Spinach!: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in your fresh spinach until wilted, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool down before mixing.
Mix It All Up!: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended—your filling should smell divine!
Stuff Those Shells!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each pasta shell with the cheesy mixture generously. Place filled shells into a baking dish lined with marinara sauce.
Add More Flavor!: Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle additional parmesan on top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Bake to Perfection!: Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool slightly before serving; trust me; your patience will pay off!
These steps will guide you through creating mouthwatering Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds). Enjoy the process as much as the delicious outcome!
You Must Know
- This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is a delightful blend of creamy cheese and fresh greens
- The vibrant colors and rich aromas will make your kitchen smell heavenly
- Perfect for family dinners, it’s a comforting dish that everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente, then prepare the filling while they cook. Assemble the dish with sauce in layers to ensure even flavor distribution.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap spinach with kale or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Lemon Potatoes with Garlic Oregano Play with herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the shells; they should be firm enough to hold filling beautifully
- Always taste your ricotta mixture before stuffing; adjust seasoning if needed
- Layering sauce prevents drying out and keeps flavors juicy and delicious
I remember making this dish for my cousin’s wedding anniversary, and they couldn’t stop complimenting me! It was a hit, proving that comfort food can also impress.
FAQ
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to three months, then bake from frozen.
What can I use instead of ricotta?
Cottage cheese works well as a lighter alternative for a similar texture.
How do I know when they’re done?
The cheese should be bubbly and golden on top for perfect stuffed shells.
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a comforting plate of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. Bursting with creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and topped with zesty marinara sauce, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Simple to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions, these stuffed shells are sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water and cook pasta shells until al dente. Drain and cool.
- Sauté chopped spinach in olive oil until wilted; let cool.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, sautéed spinach, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the mixture and place in a baking dish lined with marinara sauce.
- Pour remaining marinara over shells and sprinkle with extra parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 40mg