Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that feels like a warm hug, look no further than these Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This recipe combines tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a luscious blend of ricotta, fresh spinach, mozzarella, and Parmesan, baked to bubbly perfection in rich marinara sauce. It’s an effortless weeknight winner that doubles as a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, offering layers of creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some greens into your meal without sacrificing flavor.

The Upside of Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

One of the best things about Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells is how they bring together simple ingredients for an impressive dish with minimal effort. The spinach adds a fresh, earthy note that balances the richness of the cheeses, while the marinara sauce keeps things tangy and vibrant. This recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even special occasions.

The jumbo pasta shells act as little edible boats, perfectly holding the creamy ricotta filling. When baked, the cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible layer with a golden top of mozzarella and Parmesan. Plus, the combination of garlic powder and onion powder enhances the flavor without overwhelming the dish. Whether you’re serving family or guests, these stuffed shells deliver comfort and elegance in every bite.

If you love Italian-inspired casseroles, you might also enjoy The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe or the cheesy goodness of Baked Ziti With Ricotta.

Ingredient List

• 20 large jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

What’s in the Gear List

• Large pot – to boil the jumbo pasta shells
• Colander – for draining pasta
• Mixing bowl – to combine the filling ingredients
• Baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches) – to bake the stuffed shells
• Spoon or small spatula – for filling the shells
• Aluminum foil – to cover the dish while baking

Method: Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 20 jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as they will continue cooking in the oven. Once cooked, drain the shells and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve the other 1/2 cup for topping), 1 egg, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and creamy.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Carefully spoon the ricotta and spinach mixture into each cooked pasta shell. Fill them generously but avoid overstuffing to prevent tearing. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in your baking dish.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated but not swimming in sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy and cheesy textures with every bite.

If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy dishes, don’t miss out on trying the Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip for your next appetizer.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Ricotta Cheese: Substitute with cottage cheese blended until smooth for a lighter texture.
• Spinach: Use kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green option.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Try provolone or fontina for a different melt and flavor profile.
• Parmesan Cheese: Use Pecorino Romano for a sharper, tangier taste.
• Marinara Sauce: Replace with your favorite tomato sauce or a homemade sauce for personalized flavor.
• Egg: For an egg-free version, use a flaxseed egg or omit entirely; the cheese will still bind the filling.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Overcooking the pasta shells – soft shells will tear when stuffing and baking.
• Under-seasoning the filling – be sure to salt and pepper the mixture well for a flavorful result.
• Skipping the olive oil toss – this step prevents shells from sticking together before stuffing.
• Not covering the dish while baking – this helps to keep the shells moist and prevents the cheese from drying out.

Shelf Life & Storage

Store any leftover Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze the cooked shells in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Your Top Questions

Can I prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the shells a day in advance, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

Do I need to boil the pasta shells before stuffing?

Yes, boiling the shells until al dente is essential. This softens them enough to stuff without breaking, ensuring they bake perfectly in the oven.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just be sure to thaw completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing into the ricotta filling to avoid sogginess.

Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?

Definitely. The familiar flavors of cheese and marinara sauce appeal to many palates. You can also customize the filling by reducing or omitting spinach if needed.

Try These Next

• The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe – layered pasta with rich meat sauce and cheese.
• Baked Ziti With Ricotta – a hearty and cheesy baked pasta favorite.
• Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip – a creamy appetizer perfect for parties.

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe and tips for perfect Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, prep the filling, and enjoy making this crowd-pleasing dish. Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings or cheeses to suit your taste. Pair it with a crisp salad and crusty bread for a full Italian-inspired meal that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!

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