Shells Stuffed with Spinach and Ricotta

Stuffed pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and spinach make for an indulgent and comforting meal. The combination of soft, tender pasta and the rich, savory filling makes every bite a delight.

These pasta shells are easy to make and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a special gathering. The marinara sauce adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese, while the mozzarella cheese melts beautifully to create a bubbly, golden topping. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cooked spinach, drained
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, cooked spinach, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, being careful not to tear the shells.
5. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish in a single layer.
7. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
9. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ricotta and Spinach

This Stuffed Pasta Shells recipe is a classic Italian comfort food that is as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. The jumbo pasta shells are perfectly filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, creating a deliciously rich and hearty dish. The savory marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella on top bring everything together, creating a truly unforgettable meal.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served for any meal or event. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s quick and easy, a comforting meal to serve guests, or a dish to bring to a potluck or family gathering, these stuffed pasta shells hit the mark. They can even be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Health Benefits of Spinach

Spinach is the star vegetable in this recipe. It’s packed with iron, vitamins A, C, and K, and is a good source of folate, making it a healthy addition to any meal. Combined with the creamy ricotta and Parmesan cheeses, spinach not only provides a nutrition boost but also offers a lovely earthiness that complements the richness of the cheeses.

Customizing Your Stuffed Pasta Shells

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can swap out the spinach for other greens like kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula. For those who prefer a bit of extra protein, you can add cooked chicken, ground turkey, or even bacon to the ricotta mixture. If you’re a fan of extra cheese, feel free to sprinkle some additional Parmesan on top before baking!

You can also experiment with different sauces. While marinara is a traditional pairing, Alfredo sauce or pesto can offer a different flavor profile. If you’re making this dish for a crowd, try a mix of both!

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Once assembled, you can cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to make a larger batch or store leftovers, these stuffed pasta shells can also be frozen. After baking, allow the dish to cool completely, then cover and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen (you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time).

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ricotta and Spinach are perfect on their own, but they pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas for a well-rounded meal:

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread is always a hit alongside pasta dishes. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce!
• Green Salad: A fresh, light salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed shells. You could also add some roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms make a great side, adding both flavor and nutrition to your meal.
• A Glass of Wine: Serve this dish with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti, Sangiovese, or Merlot. These wines pair wonderfully with the tomato-based marinara sauce and cheese.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Pasta Shells

• Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, it’s important to cook the shells until they are al dente. This prevents them from becoming too soft or mushy during the baking process.
• Drain Spinach Well: If using fresh spinach, make sure to cook it down and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the ricotta mixture. This prevents the filling from becoming too watery.
• Don’t Overstuff the Shells: When stuffing the pasta shells, don’t overstuff them, as they can break or become too difficult to bake evenly. A generous scoop of filling per shell is enough!
• Bake Covered, Then Uncovered: For the perfect cheesy top, cover the baking dish with foil during the first part of the baking, then uncover it for the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and become bubbly.

The Origins of Stuffed Pasta Shells

Stuffed pasta shells, also known as conchiglioni ripieni, are a beloved Italian-American dish that combines the culinary traditions of Italy with the convenience of modern cooking. The large, conch-shaped pasta shells are perfect for stuffing with various fillings, including cheese, vegetables, and meats. The beauty of stuffed pasta is its versatility—while the classic filling often features ricotta and spinach, the possibilities are endless depending on your taste and dietary needs.

The Role of Cheese in This Dish

Cheese plays an essential role in stuffed pasta shells. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan adds depth of flavor, creaminess, and richness to every bite. Ricotta cheese, with its smooth texture, complements the spinach perfectly, while mozzarella provides that lovely gooey meltiness when baked. Parmesan offers a sharp, salty kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

In fact, the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top create that perfect, golden-brown crust, which is the hallmark of a baked pasta dish. The flavor of these cheeses infuses into the marinara sauce, making the entire dish irresistibly savory.

Making This Dish Vegetarian-Friendly

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet. The filling of ricotta and spinach is not only delicious but also rich in protein and essential nutrients. You can enhance the vegetarian nature of this dish by adding more vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes.

Additionally, swapping out traditional pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta shells is an excellent choice if you want to cater to various dietary preferences while maintaining a hearty, wholesome dish.

How to Store Leftovers

Stuffed pasta shells are just as delicious, if not more so, the next day. If you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist, and remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and brown.

If you want to keep it for a longer time, you can also freeze your stuffed pasta shells. After baking, let them cool completely and then store them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, or until the dish is fully heated and bubbly.

Pairing with Different Sauces

While marinara sauce is a classic pairing, there are many different sauces you can try to put your own spin on the dish. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Alfredo Sauce: A rich and creamy white sauce made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan. It’s perfect for those who love indulgent, velvety pasta dishes.
• Pesto Sauce: A bright and herbaceous green sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil. This is a fresh, vibrant alternative that pairs wonderfully with the ricotta and spinach filling.
• Béchamel Sauce: A French white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. It adds a smooth and creamy element to the dish, complementing the richness of the ricotta and mozzarella.

Vegetable Add-ins for Extra Flavor

If you want to make your Stuffed Pasta Shells even more nutrient-dense, consider adding some other vegetables to the filling or as a topping:

• Roasted Red Bell Peppers: These add a smoky, sweet flavor that pairs well with the richness of the ricotta.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a tangy, umami flavor that elevates the overall taste of the dish.
• Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory, caramelized onions bring an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
• Chopped Kale or Swiss Chard: Both kale and chard are perfect substitutes for spinach and bring more texture and nutrients to the recipe.

How to Serve Stuffed Pasta Shells

Stuffed pasta shells are a filling and comforting dish that can be served as a main course. However, they also work well as part of a larger Italian meal. If you’re serving a group or hosting a dinner party, you can present this dish alongside:

• Caprese Salad: A simple salad of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil that adds a burst of freshness.
• Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables can serve as a delightful starter to this pasta dish.
• Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce and add a fun, casual element to your meal.

The Secret to Perfect Stuffed Pasta Shells

Achieving perfectly stuffed pasta shells requires a little bit of patience, but the result is worth it. Make sure your shells are cooked al dente—just slightly firm—so they don’t fall apart when stuffing or baking. Once stuffed, arrange the shells in a snug, single layer in the baking dish. If the shells are crowded, they may not cook evenly, and the cheese will not melt properly.

Another trick to ensure a smooth cooking process is to spoon a little sauce into the bottom of the baking dish before placing the shells in. This prevents them from sticking to the dish and ensures that the pasta shells stay moist during baking.