Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy pasta dish to make you feel at home. 

Spinach-and-ricotta-stuffed shells deliver everything you love about comfort food — rich flavors, creamy textures, and the satisfaction of a homemade meal. 

 Here’s how you can make this delightful dish at home.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this irresistible baked pasta dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 12–15 jumbo pasta shells (about 1/2 a box)
• 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) or 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together the best of Italian cuisine in a way that’s comforting yet sophisticated. The creamy ricotta filling is perfectly seasoned, while the marinara sauce adds a tangy contrast that complements the richness of the cheese. The spinach provides a boost of nutrition without overpowering the dish. Plus, the presentation of stuffed shells baked to bubbly perfection makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells

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. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to bake in the oven. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling

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.

Next, 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. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for a minute before adding it to the ricotta mixture. Stir well to combine, and season the filling with Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will create a flavorful base for the pasta shells to rest on.

Take each cooked shell and fill it with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta-spinach mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the baking dish, open side up. Once all the shells are stuffed and in the dish, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the shells.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish the baked shells with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the dish hot with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. These stuffed shells are sure to be a hit, whether you’re serving them to a large crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home.

Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Ricotta: Full-fat ricotta yields the creamiest filling, but you can use part-skim for a lighter option.
2. Avoid Overstuffing: Use just enough filling to comfortably fill each shell without it spilling over.
3. Customize the Filling: Add sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped herbs for a unique twist.
4. Meal Prep Friendly: These stuffed shells can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking. Simply thaw and bake when ready to serve.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This recipe isn’t just another pasta bake. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and elegant.

The creamy filling paired with the tangy marinara sauce creates a perfect balance that’s satisfying yet not overly heavy.

Plus, the use of spinach not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a lovely earthy note that complements the cheeses beautifully.

Meta Description: These spinach-and-ricotta-stuffed shells are a comforting, cheesy delight, perfect for any occasion, baked to bubbly perfection with marinara sauce and mozzarella.