Go Back
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe Recipe

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

A delicious and comforting dish, perfect for any pasta lover. These spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are easy to make and full of flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Pasta Shells
  • 12-15 pieces jumbo pasta shells about 1/2 a box
Filling
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 1 cup frozen spinach thawed and drained
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish

Method
 

  1. Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Boil them in salted water until they are al dente, which typically takes around 8–10 minutes.
  2. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the egg. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
  4. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
  5. Stir well to combine, and season the filling with Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  8. Take each cooked shell and fill it with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta-spinach mixture.
  9. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the baking dish, open side up.
  10. Once all the shells are stuffed and in the dish, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
  11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  12. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

This dish is perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner. You can prepare it in advance and bake it right before serving. Feel free to add more cheese on top for an extra cheesy delight.