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Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells


  • Author: mohamed175
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delicious jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, baked in marinara sauce.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1215 Jumbo pasta shells
  • 15 oz Ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups Fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 large Egg
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 2 cups Marinara sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and the sautéed spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  4. Stuff the Pasta Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and spinach mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish, opening side up.
  5. Add Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle any remaining mozzarella or Parmesan on top.
  6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Serve: Once baked, let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

These stuffed shells can be paired with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze unbaked shells for up to 3 months.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: spinach, ricotta, pasta shells, vegetarian, baked pasta, comfort food