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Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

350kcal
Prep 20 minutes
Cook 35 minutes
Total 55 minutes
Delightful Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells are easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, combining creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and marinara sauce for a comforting meal.
Servings 4 servings
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian

Ingredients

For the Pasta Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo pasta shells Perfect for holding the filling
For the Filling
  • 15 oz Ricotta cheese Creamy base for richness
  • 3 cups Fresh spinach Chopped or frozen variety can be used
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds nutty flavor
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Divided, reserve half for topping
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder For aromatic kick
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning Enhances flavor profile
  • to taste Salt Essential for enhancing flavors
  • to taste Pepper Essential for enhancing flavors
For the Sauce and Topping
  • 2 cups Marinara sauce Adds moisture and sweetness
  • 1 cup Extra mozzarella cheese Optional topping for extra goodness

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • aluminum foil

Method

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells
  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells, cooking them until al dente as per package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking, then set aside.
  2. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, the egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  4. Stuff the Shells: Fill each cooked pasta shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Place the filled shells seam side up in the baking dish.
  5. Layer and Bake: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving1servingCalories350kcalCarbohydrates42gProtein18gFat15gSaturated Fat8gPolyunsaturated Fat0.5gMonounsaturated Fat1gCholesterol70mgSodium800mgPotassium200mgFiber3gSugar5gVitamin A2000IUVitamin C10mgCalcium300mgIron2mg

Notes

Ensure to cook the pasta shells just until al dente to avoid mushiness. Bake covered for the first half to trap moisture.

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