Description

There’s something magical about a baked pasta dish, especially when it’s infused with the creamy, rich flavors of cheese and vibrant, fresh spinach. Growing up, Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells were a dish that meant the weekend had arrived. I remember my grandmother carefully preparing each shell, her hands moving with the precision of years of practice. Meanwhile, the kitchen would fill with the cozy aroma of garlic, simmering marinara, and bubbling cheese.

This dish is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering, a dinner party, or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. The flavors of creamy ricotta blended with earthy spinach and the tangy bite of marinara sauce come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Stuffed shells are also an excellent way to get picky eaters (especially kids!) excited about spinach. The cheese filling is so flavorful that the spinach blends seamlessly, making it a stealthy way to incorporate more greens into your family’s diet.

Ingredients

Jumbo Pasta Shells: 12 shells, cooked al dente.
Ricotta Cheese: 1½ cups for a creamy, rich filling.
Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup shredded (plus extra for topping).
Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup grated for added depth of flavor.
Fresh Spinach: 1 cup chopped (or ½ cup frozen, thawed, and drained).
Garlic: 2 cloves minced, to add a savory kick.
Marinara Sauce: 2 cups, store-bought or homemade.
Egg: 1 large, to bind the filling.
Nutmeg (Optional): ¼ teaspoon, for a subtle warmth that elevates the filling.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, ensuring perfectly seasoned layers.
Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly, pat it dry, and chop it finely. If you opt for frozen spinach, make sure it’s thawed completely and squeeze out as much water as possible. Excess moisture can make the filling watery.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them until al dente—firm but cooked through. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 minute. Add the spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted (if fresh) or heated through (if frozen). Season the spinach mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, nutmeg (if using), and the spinach mixture. Stir well until the filling is smooth and evenly combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each pasta shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture. Be generous with the filling—it’s the star of the show! Place the filled shells seam-side up in the baking dish. Once all the shells are filled and arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle an extra handful of shredded mozzarella over the entire dish for that irresistible golden cheese crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbling and slightly golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the dish rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Pair with a crisp side salad and some warm garlic bread for the ultimate Italian feast.

Notes

Filling Add-Ins: Enhance the filling with extras like mushrooms or roasted red peppers for added flavor.
Sauce Swap: Homemade marinara sauce makes this dish even more special.
Stuffing Tip: Use about a tablespoon of filling per shell to avoid splitting.
Nutmeg Touch: A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and balance to the filling.
Make More: Double the recipe to feed a crowd or save leftovers for later!