Oh boy, let me tell you about my all-time favorite pasta dish—Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells! This delicious recipe is not just about filling some shells; it’s like a little hug of warmth and comfort on a plate. I remember the first time I made it for my friends during a cozy dinner party. The wonderful aroma filled the kitchen, and those cheesy, spinachy delights were gone faster than I could say “Buon Appetito!”
This dish hits the sweet spot between indulgent and nutritious. I also love that it’s super forgiving; you can even make it the day before and just pop it in the oven when your guests arrive. Today, I’m thrilled to share this recipe, because trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!
What’s in Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells?
Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are the stars of the dish! Jumbo shells are ideal for stuffing and hold all that creamy goodness nicely. Choose the best quality you can find—look for brands that don’t break easily during cooking.
Ricotta Cheese: Oh, the creamy richness of ricotta! This cheese is what makes the filling luscious and smooth. I always go for whole milk ricotta for that extra creaminess.
Fresh Spinach: A powerhouse of nutrients, spinach adds a vibrant color and a healthy twist. Fresh spinach is great when available, but you can also use frozen (just make sure to thaw and drain it well).
Parmesan Cheese: For that salty kick! I love grating my own Parmesan; it just tastes so much better than the pre-shredded kind. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce is essential for pouring over the stuffed shells. You can use homemade or your favorite store-bought brand. I love to find one that has no added sugar.
Herbs (Basil, Oregano): Fresh herbs elevate this dish to another level. They add a pop of flavor that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Is Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish has its healthy moments.
Spinach: It’s loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron and calcium. It’s like a mini salad tucked inside your pasta!
Ricotta Cheese: Though it does have some fat, it provides a significant dose of protein and calcium—perfect for building strong bones. Just keep an eye on portion sizes if you’re watching your fat intake.
However, because of the pasta and cheese, it’s definitely a more indulgent dish. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can opt for whole grain pasta shells or even zucchini slices, giving you the same comfort without the extra carbs.
Ingredients
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus a little extra for topping)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping (because why not?)
This recipe will serve about 4 to 6 hungry friends.
How to Make Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells in the boiling water for about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Don’t worry if they stick together; they’ll separate once cooled. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, half of the Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. In a baking dish, spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom.
5. Take each pasta shell and stuff it with your ricotta and spinach mixture—don’t be shy! Place the stuffed shells on top of the marinara sauce in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese (and mozzarella, if using).
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
8. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Delicious Twists and Serving Suggestions
– Feeling fancy? Top with fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic reduction before serving.
– You can also add in some cooked Italian sausage or ground turkey to the ricotta filling for added flavor and protein.
– This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and some crusty bread. It’s perfect for impressing your dinner guests!
I can’t wait for you to try these Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells. Believe me, this dish will not just fill your belly but also warm your heart. I’d love to hear how it goes for you—share your experience or any little twists you added! Happy cooking!