Cheesy spinach stuffed shells have a special place in my heart, bringing back memories of cozy Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house. The aroma of baked pasta, rich marinara, and melted cheese always filled the air, promising pure comfort. I remember watching her meticulously stuff each pasta shell, a labor of love that resulted in the most divine dish. This recipe for spinach ricotta stuffed shells is my attempt to recreate that magic, and I’ve found it’s surprisingly simple to achieve that same incredible flavor. If you’re looking for an easy stuffed shells with spinach that’s guaranteed to impress, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
- An explosion of flavor: The creamy ricotta and spinach filling paired with savory marinara is pure bliss.
- Quick prep time: You can have this dish ready for the oven in about 20 minutes!
- Packed with nutrients: Spinach adds a boost of vitamins and fiber to this comforting meal.
- Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that create a restaurant-quality dish.
- Family favorite: Kids and adults alike adore these delicious creamy spinach pasta shells.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main course or a hearty side dish.
- Crowd-pleaser: This makes for a fantastic potluck or dinner party dish.
- It’s pure comfort food! These creamy spinach pasta shells are the ultimate cozy dinner.
Ingredients for Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these amazing spinach and mozzarella stuffed shells. You’ll need 20 jumbo pasta shells, which are perfect for holding all that delicious filling. For the creamy center, we’ll use 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup cottage cheese (for extra creaminess!), and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus a little extra for topping. Don’t forget ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for that salty kick. We’ll also incorporate 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (squeeze out excess water if using frozen), 1 large egg to bind it all, and 2 cloves garlic, minced for flavor. A teaspoon of Italian seasoning, plus salt and pepper to taste, will enhance everything. Finally, you’ll need 2 cups marinara sauce to bake it all in, creating a wonderfully saucy dish. For a great homemade option, check out this homemade tomato sauce recipe.
How to Make Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step ensures your baked pasta shells will cook evenly and achieve that perfect bubbly, golden-brown finish, making this a truly simple spinach stuffed shells recipe.
- Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until they are al dente – tender but still firm to the bite. Drain them carefully and set them aside to cool slightly, which prevents them from sticking together.
- Step 3: While the shells cool, prepare your filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, a large egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s thoroughly combined and looks wonderfully creamy.
- Step 4: Now comes the fun part of this simple spinach stuffed shells recipe! Using a spoon, carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with a generous amount of the cheesy spinach mixture. Don’t be shy; pack them full!
- Step 5: Arrange the stuffed shells in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Try to place them in a single layer so they bake evenly.
- Step 6: Evenly pour the 2 cups of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Make sure each shell is coated in that delicious sauce, creating a luscious base.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the marinara sauce. This will create a beautiful, golden crust as it bakes, a hallmark of this simple spinach stuffed shells recipe.
- Step 8: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the shells to heat through.
- Step 9: Carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is gloriously bubbly and has turned a lovely golden brown color. The aroma filling your kitchen will be amazing!
- Step 10: Once perfectly baked, remove the dish from the oven. Let your Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like, for a pop of color and freshness.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate this dish from good to absolutely amazing. Follow these tips for guaranteed success and rave reviews!
- Don’t overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
- Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the spinach, whether fresh or frozen, to prevent a watery filling.
- For an extra creamy filling, consider using whole milk ricotta cheese and don’t skip the cottage cheese – it’s a secret weapon!
- If you don’t have Italian seasoning, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme works beautifully.
What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells?
The magic lies in the creamy filling! My secret is using a blend of ricotta and cottage cheese, which creates an unbelievably smooth and rich texture. This combo ensures your baked spinach and cheese shells are incredibly decadent.
Can I make Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance. Stuff the shells, place them in the baking dish with marinara, cover tightly, and refrigerate. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells?
A common pitfall is mushy pasta; cook shells only until al dente. Another mistake is a watery filling; make sure to squeeze excess liquid from your spinach. Lastly, don’t overstuff the shells, or the filling might spill out during baking.
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
These delightful cheesy spinach stuffed shells are a meal in themselves, but they pair beautifully with a few simple sides to create a truly satisfying dinner. For a classic Italian-American experience, serve them alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. You can also offer some crusty garlic bread for soaking up any extra marinara sauce – it’s a must! If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, a side of steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus complements the flavors wonderfully. Enjoying these spinach stuffed shells with marinara is always a comforting choice. For another pasta favorite, try these spaghetti with mushroom sauce.
Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
Here are the estimated nutritional values for this delicious hearty spinach and cheese pasta bake, based on a serving size of 2-3 shells. Please remember these are approximate, as ingredient brands and exact measurements can vary. For more information on nutritional content, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central.
- Calories: 375
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
Leftovers of this wonderfully hearty spinach and cheese pasta bake are a real treat, and luckily, they store and reheat beautifully! Once your cheesy spinach stuffed shells have cooled completely, transfer them into an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store them for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap individual portions or the entire dish securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and pop them into the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them overnight in the fridge. To reheat, you can pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or a quick zap in the microwave works too!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
Can I make Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells with different cheeses?
Absolutely! While the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan combination is classic, feel free to experiment. Provolone adds a lovely sharpness, and a bit of Gruyère can offer a nutty depth. Just ensure you have a good melting cheese to create that gooey, delicious texture that makes these a favorite comfort food spinach stuffed shells.
What kind of marinara sauce is best for Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells?
You can use your favorite store-bought marinara sauce, or even a homemade one if you have the time. Look for one with simple ingredients and a good balance of tomato and herbs. Some people like a slightly sweeter marinara, while others prefer a more robust, garlic-heavy sauce. Either works wonderfully to create that rich base for your comfort food spinach stuffed shells.
How do I prevent my stuffed shells from sticking together?
To prevent sticking, make sure your pasta shells are cooked just until al dente, not mushy. After draining, you can toss them very lightly with a tiny bit of olive oil or a tablespoon of the marinara sauce. Arrange them in the baking dish so they aren’t too crowded, and ensure they are well covered with marinara sauce before baking. For a similar pasta dish, consider trying spaghetti with garlic and oil.
Can I add other vegetables to this Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells recipe?
Yes, you can! Sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped zucchini, or even some diced artichoke hearts can be added to the cheese filling for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to cook any additional vegetables thoroughly and drain any excess moisture before mixing them into the cheese blend. This keeps your comfort food spinach stuffed shells perfectly creamy!
Variations of Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells You Can Try
While this classic recipe is delicious as is, I love experimenting with different flavors and methods to keep things exciting. Here are a few twists on my favorite cheesy spinach stuffed shells that you might enjoy trying!
- Gluten-Free Version: Simply swap out the jumbo pasta shells for gluten-free shells and use gluten-free breadcrumbs if your recipe calls for them. This makes it accessible for everyone, and you still get all the amazing cheesy goodness.
- Add Some Spice: For a little kick, stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into the cheese filling or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinara. It’s a subtle way to add warmth without overpowering the other flavors, creating a delightful spicy spinach and cheese pasta bake.
- Creamy Alfredo Bake: Instead of marinara, try using a creamy Alfredo sauce as the base. Layer the stuffed shells in a baking dish, pour Alfredo sauce over them, top with mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake as usual. This offers a rich alternative to the traditional tomato-based dish.
- Vegan Delight: Create a fantastic vegetarian stuffed shells with spinach by using vegan ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor to the filling, and a good quality vegan marinara sauce works perfectly. It’s a satisfying plant-based option that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells: Amazing Comfort
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and delicious Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells Bake featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, mixed with nutrient-rich spinach. This dish is baked in marinara sauce until bubbly and golden, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined to create your cheesy spinach filling.
- Using a spoon, carefully stuff each cooked shell with the cheese and spinach mixture.
- Place the stuffed shells in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Evenly pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving your Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells.
Notes
- Ensure the pasta shells are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Drain excess moisture from spinach if using frozen spinach.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference.
- For a richer flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts to the filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 shells
- Calories: 350-400
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 10-15g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 50-55g
- Fiber: 3-5g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Cholesterol: N/A
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