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Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe to Indulge In

A delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe that's comforting and easy to prepare, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Cannelloni can be a substitute
For the Creamy Filling
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Low-fat cottage cheese can be used
  • 1 large Egg Use a flax egg for vegan option
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Vegan cheese can be used
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Nutritional yeast for vegan option
  • 10 ounces Spinach Frozen spinach can be used but drained well
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Garlic powder as alternative
For the Sauce
  • 24 ounces Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
For Sautéing
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking dish
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and gently add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and let them cool slightly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the egg until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  3. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the fresh spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until it wilts.
  4. Carefully add the sautéed spinach to the ricotta mixture. Stir gently until the spinach is evenly distributed.
  5. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to ensure that each bite of the filling is flavorful.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each cooked shell with about 2 tablespoons of the filling and arrange them in the dish.
  8. Ladle the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  10. Allow the stuffed shells to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze unbaked shells for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F for 30–40 minutes.

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