Welcome to the delicious world of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells! If you’re in search of a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare, you’ve come to the right place. This Italian-inspired meal features tender pasta shells stuffed with a rich blend of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, topped off with a luscious tomato sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Did you know that stuffed pasta originated in Italy during the 16th century? It has since become a beloved dish around the world, making it a hit for both casual dinners and special occasions alike.
Why is this recipe so special? Well, not only does it bring together wholesome ingredients in a family-friendly way, but it also has a quick preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this delightful dish is sure to charm your guests and family members. If you’re a fan of our classic Lasagna or a comforting Baked Ziti, you’ll absolutely love adding Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells to your meal rotation!
What are Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
So, you might be wondering, what exactly are Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells? Well, let’s break it down: imagine large pasta shells lovingly filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta and fresh spinach, swimming in an pool of savory tomato sauce. It’s a mouthful of delight, isn’t it? Legend has it that the Italians love to stuff just about anything, and why not? After all, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, right? So, whether you’re trying to impress someone special or just treat your taste buds to something extraordinary, this recipe is a must-try. Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Here are three key aspects that make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells an irresistible dish. Firstly, the main highlight of this dish is its creamy and flavorful stuffing that melds wonderfully with the warm, tender pasta shells. The blend of ricotta and spinach offers a delightful texture and a satisfying flavor explosion in every bite. Secondly, making these shells at home is not only easy but also cost-effective compared to ordering out. You can whip up a hearty meal that feeds the entire family without breaking the bank! Lastly, the toppings—be it a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil—add a wonderful finishing touch that elevates this dish even further. If you love our famous Veggie Lasagna, we guarantee you’ll adore these stuffed shells. So, grab your apron and get ready to experience a delightful culinary adventure!
How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Quick Overview
Making Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells is as easy as it is delicious! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love. The stand-out features include the creamy filling, the hearty pasta, and the vibrant tomato sauce that pulls it all together. Plus, this dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for any night of the week.
Key Ingredients for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
To prepare this tasty recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12-15 large pasta shells
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups of marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell generously with the ricotta and spinach mixture. Make sure to pack the filling so that it doesn’t spill out during baking.
- Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells!
Top Tips for Perfecting Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Don’t Overcrowd the Dish: Space out the stuffed shells in the baking dish to allow even cooking and avoid a messy situation when serving.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to add other ingredients to your filling, such as sautéed mushrooms, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or other veggies to give it your twist.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just extend the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Check for Doneness: The pasta should be soft and the cheese melted; avoid overbaking to prevent drying out the shells.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them is easy! Simply transfer any remaining stuffed shells to an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to three days! When you’re ready to enjoy another serving, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil, until thoroughly warmed. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the oven method will help maintain that lovely cheesy texture.
There you have it! Enjoy your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells today, and don’t hesitate to share the recipe with family and friends. Happy cooking!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
For the pasta shells
- 12-15 pieces large pasta shells
For the filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil as needed for garnish (optional) Use fresh leaves for garnish before serving.
For the sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce Store-bought or homemade.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Assembly and Baking
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell generously with the ricotta and spinach mixture. Make sure to pack the filling so that it doesn’t spill out during baking.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
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