Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy blend of whole milk ricotta, nutrient-rich spinach, and savory Parmesan, baked in a rich marinara sauce and blanketed with melted mozzarella. A comforting Italian-American classic perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
For 6 servings
7 steps. 40 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of generously salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, typically 9-11 minutes. Drain carefully and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- 2
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Spread 1.5 cups of the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- 3
In a large bowl, prepare the filling
- a.Combine the whole milk ricotta, thawed and thoroughly squeezed-dry spinach, 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, the lightly beaten egg, dried oregano, 0.5 tsp salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture. A small spoon or a piping bag makes this process easier. Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in a single layer, open side up, in the prepared baking dish.
- 5
Spoon the remaining 1.5 cups of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells
- a.Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- 6
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes
- a.Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown.
- 7
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving
- a.This allows the shells to set, making them easier to serve. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Cook a few extra pasta shells, as some may tear during boiling or handling.
- 2Squeezing the thawed spinach completely dry is crucial. Excess water will result in a soggy filling and a watery sauce.
- 3For easy and clean filling, transfer the ricotta mixture to a large zip-top bag, snip off a corner, and pipe the filling into the shells.
- 4This dish is perfect for making ahead. Assemble completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking as directed (you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time).
- 5To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- 6For a richer flavor, use whole milk ricotta and mozzarella cheese instead of part-skim varieties.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat Lover's
Brown 1/2 lb of ground Italian sausage or ground beef with chopped onion and add it to the marinara sauce for a heartier dish.
Three CheeseThree-Cheese
Incorporate 4 oz of softened cream cheese or mascarpone into the ricotta filling for an even creamier texture.
Spicy ArrabbiataSpicy Arrabbiata
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling or use an Arrabbiata (spicy) marinara sauce for a kick of heat.
Mushroom & HerbMushroom & Herb
Sauté 8 oz of finely chopped cremini mushrooms with the garlic and add them to the filling along with a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Excellent Source of Calcium
Dairy products like ricotta and mozzarella are packed with calcium, a vital mineral for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as for proper nerve and muscle function.
Packed with Vitamins from Spinach
Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green, providing essential vitamins like Vitamin K for blood clotting, Vitamin A for vision health, and folate, which is crucial for cell growth and metabolism.
Frequently asked questions
This dish offers a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. It's rich in calcium from the cheese and vitamins from the spinach. However, it can be high in calories, fat, and sodium. To make it healthier, you can use part-skim cheeses, a low-sodium marinara sauce, and serve it with a large side salad.