Amazing Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta Delight

Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta is like a warm hug on a plate, inviting you to dive into its cheesy goodness and vibrant flavors. Imagine the delightful moment when you cut into those tender pasta shells, revealing a luscious filling that dances between creamy ricotta and fresh spinach – it’s practically an Italian love story. fresh corn salad to serve.

Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of garlic and bubbling marinara sauce filled the air. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights when you want something comforting yet impressive. Get ready to indulge in a flavor experience that’s as satisfying as that first bite of pizza after a long week!

Ingredients for Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta: For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe recipe.

• Large Pasta Shells: About 20-25 shells are ideal; ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold your filling.
• Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it’s the star of your filling.
• Fresh Spinach: Use about 4 cups, chopped finely; it gives color and nutrition to your dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for best results; it adds that savory depth to your filling.
• Garlic: Minced garlic brings aromatic warmth; use at least two cloves for maximum flavor.
• Marinara Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, it should be rich and flavorful to complement the dish.
• Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme enhances the overall taste profile.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing spinach and garlic; it adds richness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the large pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully and set aside on a baking sheet to cool slightly.

Step 2: Sauté the Spinach

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about one minute), then toss in your chopped spinach. Cook until wilted, about three minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach (let it cool first!), grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended – this cheesy mixture is going to change your life!

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each cooked shell and gently fill it with about two tablespoons of your spinach-ricotta mixture. Place them seam side up in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells generously – don’t skimp here! You want each shell bathed in that delicious sauce. Sprinkle some additional parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another ten minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy bite! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! A delightful journey through making Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta that will leave everyone at your dinner table asking for seconds – or thirds if they’re feeling adventurous! Enjoy sharing this comforting dish that’s sure to create lasting memories around your table.

Perfecting Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta Cooking Process

To ensure your Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta turn out perfectly, start by boiling the pasta shells first. While they cook, prepare your filling, and then layer your sauce in the baking dish to save time.

Add Your Touch to Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta

Get creative with your Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta! Swap the spinach for kale or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. You can even sprinkle in some feta cheese if you’re feeling adventurous.

Storing & Reheating Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta

Store leftover Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

When preparing your filling, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to prevent soggy shells.

Don’t overcrowd your baking dish; give your stuffed shells space so they cook evenly and heat through without sticking together.

For an extra cheesy experience, consider mixing mozzarella into your ricotta filling before stuffing the shells for that gooey goodness everyone loves!

I remember making these Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta for a family gathering, and my grandma declared them “the best thing since sliced bread”—which is high praise coming from her!

FAQs About Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta

What is Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta?

Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta is a delicious Italian dish that features large pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and various seasonings. This comforting meal is often baked in marinara sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese, creating a cheesy, flavorful experience. creamy pasta dish with cheese It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings and can be made ahead of time for convenience. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe allows you to explore the rich flavors of Italian cuisine.

How do you make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta?

To make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta, start by cooking the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, garlic, and your choice of herbs. Once the shells are cooked and cooled slightly, carefully fill each shell with the ricotta mixture. delicious tacos for a feast Place them in a baking dish topped with marinara sauce and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Can I make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta ahead of time. Prepare the filled pasta shells and arrange them in your baking dish as instructed. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, remove the cover and bake as directed. This makes it an excellent option for parties or busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the last-minute rush.

What variations can I try for Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta?

There are many delicious variations you can try for Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta. For example, consider adding cooked ground meat like beef or turkey to the filling for added protein. You could also experiment by incorporating different cheeses such as mozzarella or feta for unique flavors. If you enjoy a bit of spice, adding red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. Additionally, swapping out spinach for other greens like kale or Swiss chard offers a delightful twist while maintaining nutritional value.

Conclusion for Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta

Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta is an irresistible dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese and nutritious spinach nestled inside tender pasta shells. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit your personal tastes. classic creamy side dish By making it ahead of time or trying different variations, you can enjoy this comforting meal any day of the week. Experience the rich flavors of Italian cuisine right at home with these delightful stuffed pasta shells!

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Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta

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• Author: Chloe
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 5 (4 stuffed shells per serving) 1x

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Description

Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta are a delightful comfort food that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine to your table. Each large pasta shell is generously filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta and fresh spinach, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that complements the rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20 large pasta shells
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water and cook the pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach (cooled), Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Fill each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and place them seam side up in a greased baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle additional Parmesan on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell - approximately 75g
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg