Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the deliciousness of Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells! This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy night in. Filled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, these stuffed shells are not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just a few, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stuffing
• For the Sauce
• For Cooking
• 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
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Serve with Marinara Sauce
• Top with Fresh Herbs
• Offer a Cheese Platter
• Include Wine Pairing
• 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
• Can I use other cheeses in Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
• How do I customize Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What should I serve with Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of ricotta and mozzarella creates a rich filling that melts in your mouth.
• Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Meal: Great for vegetarian diners, yet satisfying enough for meat lovers when paired with marinara sauce.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the shells a day in advance for an effortless dinner solution.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a festive gathering, these stuffed shells fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make preparing your Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the jumbo pasta shells to al dente perfection.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and spinach to build flavor in your filling.
• Baking dish: Holds all your stuffed shells together while they bake beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing

• 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)

For the Sauce

• 2 cups marinara sauce

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

PIN THIS!

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 bake evenly.

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 them and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the spinach; cook until wilted if using fresh or heated through if using frozen. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, 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. Place them seam-side up in the baking dish.
3. 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 and 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. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

These Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, the right serving suggestions can elevate this dish to new heights.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is a classic choice that complements the cheesy richness of the stuffed shells perfectly.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling, enhancing the meal’s overall balance.

Serve with Marinara Sauce

• Extra marinara sauce on the side allows guests to add more flavor as they like, boosting the dish’s deliciousness.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley adds color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing.

Offer a Cheese Platter

• A selection of cheeses can be a great starter, enhancing the Italian theme while keeping guests entertained before dinner.

Include Wine Pairing

• Pairing your meal with a light red wine, such as Chianti, can enhance the flavors and provide a refined dining experience.

How to Perfect Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

To ensure your Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality ricotta and fresh spinach for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta shells until just al dente; they will cook further in the oven.
• Season Well: Adjust salt and pepper according to taste to bring out all flavors in your filling.
• Layer Sauce Generously: Ensure enough marinara sauce both under and over the shells to keep them moist.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different cheeses for a unique flavor profile; try adding some goat cheese or feta.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This makes serving easier and enhances flavors.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Pairing your Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells with complementary side dishes can make for an unforgettable meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing brings crunch and tanginess to balance the creamy shells.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and nutrients while keeping it simple yet delicious.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add comfort and richness that pairs beautifully with stuffed shells.
4. Bruschetta: Fresh tomato bruschetta offers a refreshing appetizer that sets the stage for your Italian feast.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon enhances freshness and adds elegance to your meal.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cured meats, and marinated vegetables creates an enticing starter that reflects Italian cuisine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is perfect.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the shells too long can make them mushy. Aim for al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Not Draining Spinach Properly: If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season the filling can lead to bland shells. Don’t forget salt and pepper, and consider adding herbs for extra flavor.
• Overstuffing the Shells: Stuffing too much filling into each shell can cause them to burst during baking. Fill them generously but not excessively.
• Forgetting the Marinara Sauce Layer: Adding marinara sauce at the bottom prevents sticking and adds flavor. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months before baking.

Reheating Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of marinara sauce to prevent sticking.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cheeses in Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

Yes! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses like feta or goat cheese for added flavor.

How do I customize Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

You can add cooked ground meat, roasted vegetables, or different herbs to personalize your dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble them ahead of time, then bake when you’re ready.

What should I serve with Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

They pair wonderfully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various ingredients or serve them alongside your favorite sides. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion—be it family dinners or special gatherings—so why not give it a try?