Description
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
Instructions
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.
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes