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Plate of spinach and ricotta stuffed shells topped with marinara sauce and cheese

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

A warm tray of ricotta-stuffed pasta shells that are cheesy, creamy, and family-friendly, making them a perfect dish for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Shells and Sauces
  • 12 pieces large pasta shells Choose jumbo or large shells, undercook slightly.
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Use a simple, well-seasoned sauce.
Filling
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese Use whole-milk ricotta for creamier texture.
  • 1 cup spinach, cooked and chopped Fresh spinach or well-pressed frozen spinach.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Grate your own for better melt and texture.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a salty, nutty finish.
  • 1 piece egg Helps bind the filling.
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as needed.
  • fresh basil for garnish (optional) Adds a fresh touch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Boil the shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
Filling
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until uniform.
Assembly
  1. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them seam-side up in a baking dish.
  2. Spread half of the marinara sauce in the base of the baking dish, then arrange the shells on top.
  3. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and optionally sprinkle with more mozzarella.
Baking
  1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serving
  1. Let the shells rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil and serving.

Notes

This dish can be prepped ahead and frozen. Refrigerate assembled shells for up to 24 hours before baking. For freezing, assemble but do not bake, cover tightly and freeze.