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ricotta spinach stuffed shells recipe

Ricotta Spinach Stuffed Shells

Zac, the creator of Eat Every Slice, smiling in a kitchen while wearing an apron, specializing in Italian-American recipes.Zac
Enjoy a comforting Italian-inspired dish with these delicious Ricotta Spinach Stuffed Shells, perfect for any family gathering.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 pieces
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking dish 9x13 inches
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Saucepan

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 1 egg lightly beaten
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, egg, garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  • Gently open each cooked pasta shell and fill with the ricotta spinach mixture. Arrange the filled shells in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the dish with foil.
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving

  • Allow the baked shells to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Storage

  • Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh ricotta for a creamier texture, and be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach. Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to substitute different cheeses like Romano or Asiago. How to Serve: Pair with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Storage & Freshness: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use. Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the dish a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.
Keyword baked pasta dishes, Italian Comfort Food, ricotta spinach stuffed shells