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 4servings
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Ingredients
For the Pasta Shells
12piecesJumbo pasta shellsPerfect for holding the filling
For the Filling
15ozRicotta cheeseCreamy base for richness
3cupsFresh spinachChopped or frozen variety can be used
1/2cupGrated Parmesan cheeseAdds nutty flavor
1cupShredded mozzarella cheeseDivided, reserve half for topping
1largeEggActs as a binder
1tspGarlic powderFor aromatic kick
1tspItalian seasoningEnhances flavor profile
to tasteSaltEssential for enhancing flavors
to tastePepperEssential for enhancing flavors
For the Sauce and Topping
2cupsMarinara sauceAdds moisture and sweetness
1cupExtra mozzarella cheeseOptional topping for extra goodness
Equipment
Large Pot
Mixing bowl
Baking Dish
aluminum foil
Method
How to Make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Cool and Serve: Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.