Description
Get ready for a pasta party with these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells! They’re cheesy, hearty, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. This delightful dish combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the nutritious goodness of spinach, all nestled in tender jumbo pasta shells and topped with marinara sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest and sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- For the Pasta:
- 18 jumbo pasta shells
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Allow it to warm up while you prepare the filling and pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Be careful not to overcook; they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Set Up the Baking Dish
Pour about 1 cup of marinara sauce into a baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom as a flavorful base for your stuffed shells.
Step 5: Stuff the Shells
Take each cooked pasta shell and stuff it with the ricotta and spinach mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish with the open side facing up.
Step 6: Add the Sauce
Cover the stuffed shells with the remaining marinara sauce, ensuring they are well-coated for plenty of flavor.
Step 7: Add Extra Cheese
Sprinkle additional grated mozzarella cheese on top of the stuffed shells for that extra cheesy goodness.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will enhance the flavors and make serving easier.
Notes
Storage
Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
These stuffed shells can be frozen before baking. Wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding additional cooking time.
Customization
Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers, or by incorporating different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes