Irresistible Spinach Ricotta Shells – Easy & Cheesy Delight

It’s a bright Saturday morning, and the scent of melting cheese and fresh herbs wafts through the air like a warm hug. Spinach Ricotta Shells are bubbling away in the oven, promising a delicious explosion of flavor in each bite. delicious eggplant ricotta lasagna Picture this: tender pasta shells cradling a creamy spinach and ricotta filling, all topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella. It’s practically a culinary love letter that your taste buds will thank you for!

Now, let me take you back to my childhood, where Saturday dinners were as sacred as family game night. My mother would whip up these Spinach Ricotta Shells with the precision of a seasoned artist. The kitchen would be filled with laughter and the delightful chaos that only a family meal can bring. million dollar ravioli casserole Fast forward to today, and I still find myself reaching for this recipe when I want to impress friends or simply indulge in some good ol’ comfort food. Trust me; you’ll want to dive into this cheesy goodness at any opportunity!

Ingredients for Spinach Ricotta Shells

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large pasta shells will hold the creamy filling perfectly. Look for ones made from durum wheat for better texture.
• Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
• Fresh Spinach: Use baby spinach for its mild flavor and tender texture; sautéing enhances its vibrant green color.
• Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought brand or make your own; either will work wonders.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This is essential for that gooey topping that everyone loves; go for whole milk mozzarella if possible.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle adds an extra layer of flavor; use freshly grated if you can.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a punch of flavor; don’t skimp on this!
• Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté the spinach and garlic without burning them.

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

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Shells

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil—this is where your pasta shells will take their dip!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, add the jumbo pasta shells gently so they don’t break apart in their excitement. Cook them according to package instructions until al dente—typically about 9 minutes—and then drain them carefully.

Step 3: Sauté Spinach and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, splash in some olive oil and toss in minced garlic until fragrant—about a minute will do! Add the fresh spinach next, stirring until wilted down into flavorful submission.

Step 4: Mix Filling Ingredients

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach and garlic mixture, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is beautifully combined—your filling should be creamy with hints of green throughout.

Step 5: Stuff Those Shells

Take each cooked shell and gently stuff it with your heavenly ricotta-spinach filling—don’t rush! Place each filled shell seam-side up in an oiled baking dish like you’re tucking them into bed.

Step 6: Assemble & Bake

Pour marinara sauce generously over the stuffed shells before sprinkling shredded mozzarella on top. Cover with aluminum foil (don’t let it touch the cheese) and bake for about 25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Remove foil for the last five minutes to let that cheese get golden brown.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with leftover marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch!

And there you have it—Spinach Ricotta Shells that are not only satisfying but also fun to make! Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in by yourself (no judgment here), this dish promises warmth, comfort, and maybe even leftovers if you’re lucky! Enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta shells until al dente. While they cook, prepare the spinach and ricotta filling. Once stuffed, assemble in a baking dish and pour over your favorite tomato sauce. Bake until bubbly for optimal flavor!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the spinach for kale or add some sautéed mushrooms for extra texture. You can also sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or mix in some grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover spinach ricotta shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

I remember the first time I made spinach ricotta shells for my family. Everyone was skeptical at first, but after one bite, their faces lit up like it was Christmas morning—definitely a proud chef moment!

FAQs:

What are Spinach Ricotta Shells?

Spinach ricotta shells are pasta shells filled with a delicious mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and herbs. This dish is often topped with marinara sauce and baked until bubbly. It’s a perfect vegetarian option that combines creamy textures with savory flavors, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. The pasta shells serve as a sturdy vessel for the rich filling, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe.

How do I make Spinach Ricotta Shells from scratch?

To make spinach ricotta shells from scratch, start by cooking jumbo pasta shells until al dente. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, chopped cooked spinach, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and seasonings. Stuff each shell with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. hearty Tuscan white bean soup Pour marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Can I freeze Spinach Ricotta Shells?

Yes, you can freeze spinach ricotta shells for later use. To do this, prepare the dish as usual but do not bake it. Instead, cover the unbaked shells tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake according to your recipe’s instructions. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Shrimp Recipe recipe.

What can I serve with Spinach Ricotta Shells?

Spinach ricotta shells pair wonderfully with various side dishes. A simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette complements the richness of the shells nicely. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks also make great accompaniments by adding crunch and warmth to your meal. citrus radicchio salad You could even serve steamed vegetables on the side for added nutrition and color on your plate.

Conclusion for Spinach Ricotta Shells:

In summary, spinach ricotta shells offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that appeal to many palates. They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time or frozen for convenience. Whether enjoying them at a family dinner or serving guests at a gathering, these stuffed pasta shells are sure to impress. Try this comforting dish today and savor every bite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Spinach Ricotta Shells

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Spinach Ricotta Shells are a comforting and indulgent dish that combines tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a creamy blend of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach. Each shell is generously topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella, creating a delightful burst of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is easy to prepare and even easier to love!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water in a large pot.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a bowl, mix sautéed spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until combined.
5. Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture and place them seam-side up in an oiled baking dish.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle mozzarella on top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil for the last five minutes to brown the cheese.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 stuffed shells (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg