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Plate of spinach and ricotta stuffed shells topped with marinara sauce

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Indulge in creamy, cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a classic comfort dish perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stuffed Shells
  • 12 oz jumbo pasta shells Cook until just al dente
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese Opt for full-fat for creamier filling
  • 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry Ensure spinach is well-drained
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Marinara Sauce
  • 24 oz marinara sauce Choose a high-quality, low-sugar sauce
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the jumbo shells in salted water until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let them cool enough to handle.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, thawed spinach, 1 cup of mozzarella, 1/2 cup of Parmesan, the egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully combined.
Assembly
  1. Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  2. Fill each cooked shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture and arrange them snugly in a single layer in the baking dish.
  3. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, coating them evenly.
  4. Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup of Parmesan on top.
  5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  7. Let the shells rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For a healthier option, incorporate whole wheat jumbo shells for added fiber and nutrients. This dish can be prepared a day in advance; just bake when ready.