Savory Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells Easy Recipe

Are you ready to delight your taste buds with a comfort food classic? My Savory Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Packed with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta, these shells are a hit with family and friends. I’ll guide you through easy steps to create this mouthwatering dish. Let’s dive in to make a meal that you’ll want to share!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 20 jumbo pasta shells

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)

– 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

– 1 egg, beaten

– 2 cups marinara sauce

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Benefits of Each Ingredient

– Jumbo pasta shells: They hold the filling well and make for a hearty meal.

– Ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and a nice texture.

– Fresh spinach: Spinach is loaded with vitamins and adds a fresh taste.

– Mozzarella cheese: It melts beautifully and adds that gooey, cheesy goodness.

– Parmesan cheese: This cheese gives a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

– Egg: It binds the filling, making it easier to stuff the shells.

– Marinara sauce: The sauce adds moisture and a tangy flavor to the dish.

– Garlic and onion powder: These spices boost the flavor without extra prep.

– Salt and pepper: They enhance all the other flavors in the dish.

– Fresh basil leaves: These add a pop of color and a fresh aroma.

Possible Substitutions

– Ricotta cheese: You can use cottage cheese if you want a lighter option.

– Fresh spinach: Frozen spinach works too; just make sure to squeeze out the water.

– Mozzarella cheese: Cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses can be used.

– Parmesan cheese: Grana Padano or nutritional yeast can replace it for a vegan option.

– Egg: Use a flax egg or applesauce for a vegan alternative.

– Marinara sauce: You can substitute it with pesto for a twist in flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Pasta Shells

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 20 jumbo pasta shells and cook them until they are al dente. This means they should be firm, but not hard. Drain the shells, then set them aside to cool. Make sure they don’t stick together.

Making the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the filling. Add 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix in 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese and 1 beaten egg. Don’t forget to add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything until it is well mixed.

Assembling the Dish

Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Take each cooled pasta shell and stuff it generously with the spinach and ricotta filling. Place the shells in the dish, with the open side facing up. Once all the shells are filled, pour the rest of the marinara sauce over them. Make sure the shells are well coated. Finally, sprinkle the extra mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.

Baking Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden. Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Cooking Pasta

To cook pasta shells well, start with plenty of salted water. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the shells. This keeps them from sticking. Cook the shells for about 9 to 11 minutes. You want them al dente, which means firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the shells and let them cool. This helps when you stuff them later.

How to Get the Perfect Cheese Melt

For that gooey cheese melt, use fresh mozzarella cheese. Shred it yourself for better melt quality. After stuffing the shells, add a good layer of mozzarella on top. Cover the dish with foil while baking. This keeps the moisture in, helping the cheese melt evenly. Remove the foil near the end of baking for a golden finish.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips

When serving, place the stuffed shells on individual plates. Drizzle some extra marinara sauce over each shell for color and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a nice touch. You can also serve with a side salad or garlic bread. This makes the meal feel complete.

Variations

Adding Protein Options

Want to boost your stuffed shells? You can add protein easily. Ground turkey or chicken works well. Just cook the meat before mixing it into the filling. You can also use cooked sausage for a richer flavor. For a plant-based option, try lentils or chickpeas. They add heartiness and pair nicely with the spinach and cheese.

Vegetarian Alternatives

If you want to change things up, consider different vegetables. Roasted red peppers or mushrooms add great taste. You can also use zucchini or artichoke hearts. Just chop them finely and mix them into the cheese filling. This keeps the dish exciting and colorful.

Flavor Enhancements with Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices can elevate your stuffed shells. Fresh basil or parsley adds a lovely touch. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for heat. If you like a touch of sweetness, try a pinch of nutmeg. These simple additions make the dish more flavorful and fun.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store your leftover stuffed shells, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Just make sure to wrap them well.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze your stuffed shells, first, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. This helps keep them from sticking together. After they freeze, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Tips

When it’s time to eat your frozen shells, you can reheat them with ease. Take them out of the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shells in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until heated through. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 10 minutes. Enjoy your meal!

FAQs

Can I make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells in advance?

Yes, you can make these stuffed shells ahead of time. Prepare the dish, but do not bake it. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you are ready, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

These shells pair well with many sides. Consider serving a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread is also great for soaking up the marinara sauce. You can even add some roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when the shells are done baking?

The shells are done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. You will want to bake them for about 35 to 40 minutes total. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil until it’s done. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can mix and match cheeses based on your taste. Try adding feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Cheddar or gouda can add a rich flavor. Just keep the total cheese amount similar to the recipe to maintain the right texture.

This blog post covered how to make Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells. We explored the ingredients, their benefits, and substitutions. You learned step-by-step how to prepare, fill, and bake the shells. We shared tips for cooking pasta and how to get that perfect cheese melt. Lastly, we discussed various ways to store leftovers and answered common questions.

Now, you can create a tasty, comforting dish that suits your taste. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful mea