Get ready to transform your dinner table with the most mouthwatering Italian-inspired dish that will have everyone begging for seconds! These Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells are not just a meal, they're a culinary adventure that combines creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and zesty marinara sauce in a perfectly baked pasta symphony. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend kitchen warrior, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent shells from sticking.
- Using a spoon, carefully fill each pasta shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture, ensuring each shell is generously stuffed.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the shells.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the top is lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh basil.
Tips
- Use fresh spinach and thoroughly drain it to prevent watery filling
- Cook pasta shells just until al dente to maintain their structure for stuffing
- Let the shells cool slightly before filling to make handling easier
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture
- Use a piping bag or zip-lock bag with corner cut off for neater, faster shell filling
- Choose a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own for best results
- For a golden, crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes after baking
- Serve immediately for the best texture and melted cheese experience
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 221kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 40mg
