Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

Introduction

Experience the heartiness of traditional Italian cooking with our Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe. This dish offers a delectable blend of creamy ricotta, nutritious spinach, and savory cheese, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta shells and smothered in rich marinara sauce. Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it is also a breeze to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced home chef, this recipe is designed to deliver a satisfying and comforting meal every time.

Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Be sure not to overcook them as they will continue cooking in the oven. Once done, drain and set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir together until the mixture is well-combined and creamy.

Step 3: Fill the Shells

Carefully fill each of the cooked and cooled pasta shells with the ricotta mixture. A spoon can be handy for this step, helping you pack the filling gently but firmly inside each shell.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce across the bottom. Arrange the stuffed shells, open side up, atop the marinara layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, ensuring they are generously coated.

Step 5: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, covering the shells and sauce evenly. This will melt into a golden, bubbly topping as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to brown slightly.

Variations

For a bit of spice, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture. Alternatively, incorporate cooked ground beef or Italian sausage into the filling for a meaty variation. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as fontina or provolone, to create unique flavors.

Cooking Notes

• Ensure the pasta shells are cooked just enough—they should be firm so they can hold the filling well and absorb the flavors of the sauce during baking.
• For those who prefer a smoother texture, use a food processor to blend the ricotta, spinach, and Parmesan mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delectable stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread and a fresh, crisp green salad. A glass of Chianti or a robust red wine complements this dish beautifully, enhancing the Italian dining experience.

Tips

• For an extra crispy topping, broil the shells for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
• Prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator; it allows the flavors to meld.
• Use fresh spinach if possible, but frozen spinach, thawed and drained, can be a handy substitute.

Timing Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 18g
• Sodium: 480mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Yes, while shells are traditional, you can use manicotti or cannelloni if they’re more readily available.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells, cover them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Conclusion

Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a delightful and satisfying meal that combines rich flavors and creamy textures. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, this classic Italian dish is sure to please. Try out different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy this comforting, cheesy, and delicious baked pasta!

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