Go Back
–+ servings
Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Delicious Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Nights

A delightful vegetarian dish of Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells, perfect for family dinners and make-ahead convenience.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stuffing
  • 12 pieces Jumbo pasta shells Opt for high-quality shells for the best results.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta cheese Full-fat ricotta enhances flavor and texture.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella cheese Adds meltiness to the filling.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Fresh is always best.
  • 1 cup Fresh spinach Can substitute frozen spinach if well drained.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for best flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp Nutmeg Optional, adds warmth and complexity.
For the Marinara Sauce
  • 2 cups Marinara sauce Quality matters for flavor.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning Adds aromatic flavors.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil Used for sautéing.
For Garnish
  • to taste Fresh basil or parsley Adds freshness when serving.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes, then add spinach and wilt for 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and remove from heat.
  4. In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, a beaten egg, and nutmeg if using. Mix until creamy.
  5. Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them seam side up in the dish.
  6. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells and top with extra mozzarella cheese.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Drain spinach thoroughly to avoid a watery mixture. You can prep the stuffed shells a day in advance and store in the fridge before baking.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!