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Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Delicious baked pasta shells stuffed with a creamy blend of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, perfect for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, cooked spinach, salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Mix well.
  6. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish.
  7. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture and place them in the baking dish.
  8. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or red pepper flakes on top before serving. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.