How to Create Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
If you’re a fan of cheesy, comforting pasta dishes, then cheesy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are sure to become one of your favorites! These jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and mozzarella, baked in a rich tomato sauce, and topped with more melty cheese. The result? A hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or date nights.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the simple steps to make cheesy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells at home. Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking—this recipe is beginner-friendly and super easy to customize. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make this delicious dish:
For the filling:
– 18–20 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the sauce:
– 2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce (store-bought works great!)
– Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make this easy and delicious meal. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook them until they’re al dente (firm but cooked). This will prevent them from becoming too soft when baked. Once cooked, drain the pasta, and lay the shells out on a baking sheet or plate to keep them from sticking together while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Next, chop the fresh spinach finely or, if using frozen spinach, ensure all excess water is squeezed out. Add the spinach to the cheese mixture along with the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the spinach is evenly mixed throughout the filling.
Tip: Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or a pinch of garlic powder can make all the difference.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce and Baking Dish
Pour about 1 cup of marinara or tomato sauce into the bottom of a large baking dish. Spread it out evenly—it will act as the base for your stuffed shells and keep them moist while baking.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Now comes the fun part! Take each cooked pasta shell and spoon the spinach-ricotta filling inside. Be generous but don’t overstuff the shells, as you’ll want them to close easily. Arrange the stuffed shells in your prepared dish, nestled side by side.
Step 5: Add More Sauce and Cheese
Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top. Make sure every shell is covered in sauce so they don’t dry out in the oven.
Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy finish. For even more flavor, add a little grated Parmesan or a dash of Italian seasoning on top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the shells for 20 minutes. The foil helps trap heat and moisture, allowing the shells to cook evenly.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like your cheese golden and slightly crispy, turn on the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, let the stuffed shells cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair this creamy dish with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad to complete your meal.
Fun Tips to Customize Your Stuffed Shells
- Add protein! For a heartier dish, mix cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken into the filling.
- Use different greens: Not a fan of spinach? Try kale or arugula instead—both work wonderfully in this recipe.
- Switch up the sauce: While marinara is classic, you can use Alfredo sauce or vodka sauce for a twist.
- Make it ahead: You can prep and assemble the stuffed shells earlier in the day or even the night before. Just cover and refrigerate them, then bake them when ready.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s cozy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting guests, this recipe guarantees smiles all around. Take your time following the steps, and don’t be afraid to add your own creative touch.
Cooking is all about having fun in the kitchen and enjoying the process. So, grab your apron, get cooking, and savor every cheesy bite of this delicious dish. Happy cooking!
