Cheesy Spinach-Stuffed Shells are a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of creamy ricotta, tender spinach, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled in jumbo pasta shells. Baked in a flavorful marinara sauce, these stuffed shells are perfect for a cozy family dinner or for impressing guests at a gathering. The combination of spinach and cheese creates a hearty, satisfying filling that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Easy to make and wonderfully comforting, Cheesy Spinach-Stuffed Shells are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the shells: Spoon the ricotta and spinach mixture into each cooled pasta shell, filling them generously.
- Assemble the dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, making sure each shell is covered with sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish the Cheesy Spinach-Stuffed Shells with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot, paired with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cheesy Spinach-Stuffed Shells are a satisfying and flavorful dish that combines the best of comfort food with wholesome ingredients. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed shells are sure to delight everyone at the table.
