In a world where pasta reigns supreme, there’s a dish that stands tall like a delicious giant among the tiny spaghetti and macaroni. Enter the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe, a culinary masterpiece that combines creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and al dente pasta shells into one glorious bite. Picture this: you’re sitting at the dinner table, the aroma of bubbling marinara sauce wafting through the air, teasing your taste buds with anticipation. Don’t you just love when a meal feels like a warm hug?
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about memories too! I can still hear my grandmother’s laughter as she taught me how to stuff these delightful shells. It was a family affair that brought everyone together on chilly Sunday evenings. The excitement of creating something beautiful and delicious made those moments unforgettable. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an impressive dinner party, Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells will steal the spotlight!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- The flavor profile is an explosion of creamy, savory goodness, with fresh herbs adding depth.
- These visually stunning shells are sure to impress guests at any dinner table.
- Plus, they are super versatile; swap in different fillings based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge!
Ingredients for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Jumbo Pasta Shells: Look for large pasta shells that can hold generous amounts of filling without breaking.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole-milk ricotta for creaminess; it makes all the difference in texture.
Fresh Spinach: Use fresh spinach leaves for vibrant color and better flavor; frozen spinach can be watery.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor; it’s worth it!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought works perfectly here, but homemade adds a personal touch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor; minced or pressed works best.
Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano and basil brings out authentic Italian flavors in your stuffing.
For the Sauce:
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over your stuffed shells before baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that lovely heat builds up, grab a large pot of salted water and bring it to a rolling boil.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Once the water is boiling like your aunt’s spirited debates at family gatherings, add in those jumbo shells. Cook them according to package instructions until al dente—firm yet tender enough to stuff without bursting.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped fresh spinach (make sure it’s squeezed dry), grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and Italian herbs. Mix well until everything is creamy and cohesive—like friends reunited after years apart.
Step 4: Stuff Those Shells
Once your pasta has cooled enough not to singe your fingertips off, carefully stuff each shell with about two tablespoons of that luscious filling. Place each filled shell seam-side up in a greased baking dish like they’re snuggling into bed.
Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour marinara sauce generously over the stuffed shells until they’re swimming in tomato goodness. Drizzle some olive oil on top for added richness—because why not indulge?
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil for an additional five minutes to let those tops get golden brown and bubbly.
Transfer to plates and serve hot with extra marinara on the side if you want to take things over-the-top delicious! Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about family dinners or planning your next adventure into pasta wonderland!
You Must Know
- This delicious spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe is not just about satisfying your taste buds; it’s also a great way to impress guests.
- The creamy filling and rich sauce create a delightful dish that pleases everyone at the table, making it perfect for any occasion.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente while preparing the creamy ricotta filling. Once the shells are ready, layer them in a baking dish and cover generously with marinara sauce. Bake until bubbly, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Don’t hesitate to make this spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe your own! Swap out spinach for kale or add some sautéed mushrooms for an extra earthy flavor. You could even sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you like a little kick!
Storing & Reheating
To store your leftover stuffed shells, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they stay deliciously cheesy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked shells, avoid over-boiling them; they should be firm enough to hold the filling.
- To elevate flavor, try adding herbs like basil or oregano to your ricotta mixture.
- Finally, don’t skimp on the cheese topping—it’s essential for that golden crust.
Nothing beats hearing my friends rave about this spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe at dinner parties! It became a staple, as everyone keeps asking me when I’ll whip it up again.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe?
To make the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe, gather large pasta shells, ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. Ensure you also have salt and pepper for seasoning. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor. This combination of ingredients creates a creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the marinara sauce.
How long does it take to prepare the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe?
Preparation time for the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe is around 20 to 25 minutes. Cooking time will add another 30 minutes in the oven. Overall, you can expect to spend about an hour from start to finish. This makes it a great option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion where you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Can I make the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time. After assembling them with sauce, cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze unbaked shells for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, adjust the baking time accordingly if baking from frozen.
What can I serve with Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells pair well with various sides. A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette adds freshness. Garlic bread is another popular choice that complements the dish perfectly. For something heartier, consider serving roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli. These options enhance your meal while balancing flavors.
Conclusion for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe :
In summary, the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe combines delicious flavors with ease of preparation. Using fresh ingredients like spinach and ricotta creates a satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a comforting family dinner or served at gatherings, these stuffed shells are sure to please everyone at your table. Try this recipe today for a delightful culinary experience!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a comforting classic that marries creamy ricotta with fresh spinach, all enveloped in tender jumbo pasta shells. Baked in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese, this dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that comes with every cheesy shell!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 (12 stuffed shells) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and boil a large pot of salted water.
- Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and cool.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs; mix until well-blended.
- Stuff each shell with about two tablespoons of filling and place seam-side up in a greased baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and drizzle with olive oil.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (180g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in sautéed mushrooms or swapping spinach for kale. Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
