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–+ servings
Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Comforting Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Dinner Nights

A delightful vegetarian dish of creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach enveloped in tender pasta shells, perfect for busy nights or gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 shells
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells
For the Filling
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Opt for full-fat for best flavor.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese Shredded for topping.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated.
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach Can substitute with well-drained frozen spinach.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Optional.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
Optional Extras
  • 1 large Egg Optional, for binding.

Equipment

  • baking dish
  • Skillet
  • large pot
  • colander

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells for about 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and let cool.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add minced garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
  4. In a bowl, combine the spinach mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and nutmeg until well mixed.
  5. Spread marinara sauce in the baking dish. Fill each cooled shell with the ricotta-spinach mixture and place seam-side up in the dish. Pour remaining sauce over shells and sprinkle additional mozzarella on top.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.
  7. Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1shellCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make-ahead option available. Assemble and refrigerate before baking for deeper flavors and easy preparation.

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