Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells (Print Version)
Pasta shells packed with spinach and three cheeses, baked in bright marinara sauce for Italian comfort.
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
12–15 jumbo pasta shells (about 1/2 a box)
02 -
2 cups ricotta cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 large egg
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2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
07 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups marinara sauce
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
# Directions:
01 -
Cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and egg until well mixed. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add minced garlic, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Stir and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
03 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Spread 1 cup marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each pasta shell with around 2 tablespoons of the ricotta-spinach mixture. Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer in the baking dish with the open side up.
05 -
Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Allow the baked dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
# Notes:
01 -
Choose full-fat ricotta for a creamier filling, but part-skim ricotta can be used for a lighter option.
02 -
Avoid overstuffing the shells to prevent spilling.
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For added customization, introduce sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs into the filling.
04 -
This dish can be prepared in advance and frozen before baking. Thaw before baking for quick preparation.