Go Back
–+ servings
Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells: Your New Favorite Comfort Dish

Enjoy these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a delightful meatless option perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stuffed Shells
  • 12 oz jumbo pasta shells The perfect vessel for capturing all that creamy goodness.
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese Using full-fat ricotta ensures a rich and creamy filling.
  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese Adds melty texture and flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Provides salty depth.
  • 5 oz fresh spinach Provides freshness in texture.
  • 2 cloves garlic Essential for flavor.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the filling.
For the Sauce
  • 24 oz marinara sauce Enhances flavor tremendously.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Used for sautéing.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Elevates with authentic Italian flavors.
  • to taste salt Balances and enhances flavors.
  • to taste pepper Balances and enhances flavors.
  • 1 pinch nutmeg Optional; adds warmth.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil and cook jumbo pasta shells until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and let cool.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, then add spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season and cool.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, cooled spinach mixture, egg, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth, season to taste.
  5. Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish, stuff each shell with cheese mixture, and place seam-side up. Cover with remaining sauce.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with mozzarella, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These stuffed shells are freezer-friendly. Assemble and freeze before baking for easy meals later. Perfect for make-ahead planning.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!