There’s something incredibly satisfying about a plate of Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, with their plump, tender pasta shells cradling a creamy filling. Imagine the first bite, where the warmth of melted cheese mingles with the vibrant taste of fresh spinach, creating an explosion of flavors that dances on your palate. It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds, one that begs you to come back for just one more forkful (or three). For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole Recipe recipe.
Now, let me take you back to that dinner party where I decided to whip up this dish. Picture me in the kitchen, flour flying everywhere, with my cat eyeing me suspiciously from the counter. I felt like a mad scientist as I mixed ricotta and spinach while simultaneously trying not to burn the garlic bread. The laughter and chatter of friends filled the air as they eagerly anticipated these stuffed shells. Spoiler alert: they were a hit! Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, these shells promise to deliver pure joy on every plate.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe is simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for entertaining guests.
- With a creamy filling and al dente shells, every bite is heavenly.
- Its colorful presentation will brighten any table setting while being versatile enough to adapt based on your pantry staples.
- Enjoy these at family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight meal without much fuss.
Ingredients for Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Pasta Shells: Go for jumbo-sized shells; they are perfect for holding that cheesy goodness inside.
- Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it truly makes all the difference in texture.
- Fresh Spinach: Use organic spinach if possible; it brings freshness and vibrant color to the filling.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth of flavor; feel free to use fresh or pre-grated varieties.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential; it gives everything that aromatic kick we all love.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil enhances flavors; it’s worth investing in a nice bottle.
- Salt and Pepper: Always season your fillings well—these little guys need flavor!
For the Sauce:
- More Marinara Sauce: You can never have too much sauce; keep some extra on hand for layering.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grab a baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks later—trust me, no one wants stuck shells!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Once bubbling like a hot spring in Japan, toss in those jumbo pasta shells. Cook them until al dente according to package instructions—usually about eight minutes works well.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the pasta cooks, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about one minute). Toss in fresh spinach until wilted—this should only take a couple of minutes.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach mixture, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and resembles something you could dive into face-first.
Step 5: Stuff Those Shells
Once your pasta shells are done cooking (and cooled slightly), carefully fill each shell with the creamy mixture using a spoon or piping bag—get messy! Place them seam side up in your prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Add Sauce & Bake
Pour marinara sauce generously over the stuffed shells. Cover with aluminum foil (to help keep them moist) and bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil during the last five minutes so they get bubbly and golden!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch!
And there you have it—the delightful journey of making Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells! They’re perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day because everyone deserves some cheesy love now and then!
You Must Know
- This easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level.
- It’s a dish that pleases everyone at the table while being simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
- The creamy filling and tender pasta shell make it irresistible!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and boiling water for the pasta. Cook the shells until al dente, then drain. While they cool, mix the ricotta, spinach, and seasonings. Finally, stuff those shells like you’re packing for a vacation and bake until golden!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ricotta for cottage cheese if you want a lighter option. Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor punch. You can even sprinkle some mozzarella on top for an ooey-gooey finish!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick meal.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your pasta shells are slightly undercooked to avoid mushiness when baking.
- Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for better flavor.
- A touch of nutmeg in the ricotta adds depth to the filling!
Sometimes I serve these stuffed shells during family gatherings, and they disappear faster than my Uncle Bob at a buffet. The laughter and full bellies remind me why I love cooking!
FAQs:
What are Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are large pasta shells filled with a delicious mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and Parmesan. This dish is baked in marinara sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese for a comforting meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a blend of creamy and savory flavors that everyone loves.
Can I make Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time. Assemble the shells, place them in a baking dish, cover with sauce, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop them in the oven and bake until bubbly.
What variations can I add to Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
You can customize Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells by adding ingredients like cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or using a spicy marinara sauce. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the flavor profile of this delightful dish.
How do I store leftovers of Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
To store leftovers of Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, let them cool completely first. Transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion for Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells:
In summary, Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients like ricotta cheese, spinach, and marinara sauce, they offer both flavor and comfort. Preparing them ahead of time is easy, making weeknight dinners less stressful. Enjoy this dish as it pleases both kids and adults alike!
Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a delightful and comforting dish that will impress your family and guests alike. These large pasta shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, topped with marinara sauce, and baked to perfection. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet elegant enough for entertaining, making it perfect for any occasion. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Carefully fill each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture and place them seam side up in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce generously over the stuffed shells. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil during the last 5 minutes to allow for bubbling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 stuffed shells (about 280g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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