Looking for an effortless yet satisfying dinner? These Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are the answer! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. With layers of cheesy goodness, you’ll wonder why you ever thought dinner had to be complicated.
Imagine diving into a plate filled with tender pasta shells stuffed with a creamy spinach and ricotta filling. Paired with a rich tomato sauce, this dish is not just another easy dinner recipe—it’s a crowd-pleaser that can impress even the pickiest of eaters.
Have you ever tried Stuffed Shells Recipe Beef? While they’re delicious, there’s something wonderfully lighter about these stuffed shells with spinach, tomato, and ricotta. They make for a delightful twist on the classic that everyone will love.
Irresistible Flavor Combinations
Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells present a delightful blend of flavors that will entice any palate. The creamy ricotta, combined with vibrant spinach, creates a rich filling that complements the tanginess of the marinara sauce perfectly.
Each bite reveals the harmony of ingredients, as the shells cradle their delicious contents beneath a blanket of melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is not just about taste; it brings comfort and satisfaction, making it a go-to for easy dinner recipes.
Preparing the Perfect Stuffed Shells
Creating these Easy Stuffed Shells is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells to al dente perfection, ensuring they maintain a delightful texture that holds up to the stuffing and sauce.
Next, whip up the filling by mixing ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, and a medley of seasonings. This mixture brings a fresh and creamy element to the dish, distinguishing it from heavier options like Stuffed Shells Recipe Beef, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative.
Layering for Success
Layering is key to an exceptional dish. Begin by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish, which not only adds flavor but also prevents the shells from sticking. Carefully place the stuffed shells on top, ensuring each one is nestled snugly.
Finish by generously pouring more marinara sauce over the shells, allowing every nook and cranny to be coated. The final touch of shredded mozzarella cheese transforms the dish into a cheesy masterpiece that invites everyone to dig in.
The Baking Process
Once everything is assembled, it’s time to bake. Cover the dish with foil to maintain moisture during the initial baking phase, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. After a short period, removing the foil lets the cheese bubble and turn golden brown, creating a visually appealing dish that’s hard to resist.
Keep an eye on the oven towards the end of the cooking time, as the aroma that fills your kitchen will surely draw everyone in. The result is a comforting and visually striking meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to serve, consider garnishing with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. The contrast of the green basil with the red marinara sauce and melted cheese creates an inviting presentation.
These Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells shine not just as a main course but also as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Pair them with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that will impress guests and family alike.
Making It Your Own
Feel free to customize this dish to suit your taste. Additional herbs or spices can be incorporated into the filling for an extra punch of flavor. You could even experiment with different types of cheese or add in some protein if you desire.
This versatility ensures that your stuffed shells remain a beloved staple in your recipe collection, allowing you to enjoy variations like Stuffed Shells With Spinach, Tomato And Ricotta whenever the craving strikes.
Delicious and Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
These Easy Stuffed Shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs, then smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melty mozzarella. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff the Shells: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Use a spoon to fill each pasta shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture and place them in the baking dish.
- Add Sauce: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
