Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Baked Pasta Shells with Creamy Filling.

Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells:

A comforting and delicious Italian-inspired dish, these jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture, then baked in a flavorful tomato sauce with melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy meal!

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry (or 2 cups fresh, sautéed)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells (cook a few extra in case some break)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions).
• Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Ricotta Filling:

• In a large bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

3. Assemble the Dish:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Stuff each pasta shell with about 1–2 tbsp of the ricotta mixture and place them open-side up in the dish.
• Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
• Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top.

4. Bake the Shells:

• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

5. Serve & Enjoy:

• Let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
• Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

Tips & suggestions:

• Want more flavor? – Add sautéed garlic and onions to the ricotta mixture.
• Add protein – Mix in crumbled sausage or ground turkey for a meaty version.
• Make it extra veggie-packed – Add chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Go gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta shells.

Enjoy your meal!