Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a delicious meal? These Creamy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells are the perfect way to do just that! With their rich flavors and comforting textures, they'll become a favorite at your dining table. In this blog post, I will guide you through each step, sharing tips, tricks, and even nutritional insights for this delightful dish. Let’s get started on your culinary adventure!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy Filling: The combination of ricotta and mozzarella creates a rich and creamy texture that perfectly complements the spinach.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Great for Meal Prep: These stuffed shells are easy to make in bulk and reheat well, making them an excellent option for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the filling by adding other vegetables or proteins according to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
The main ingredients make this dish shine. Jumbo pasta shells are key. They hold a lot of filling and look great on the plate. Fresh spinach adds a nice color and flavor. Creamy ricotta cheese gives a rich texture. Shredded mozzarella cheese melts well, making everything gooey. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick.
Seasoning and Extras
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Seasoning is vital for taste. Garlic brings out the flavor in the filling. Dried oregano gives a nice herby note. The egg helps bind everything together. Salt and pepper add balance and depth.
Additional Items
- 2 cups marinara sauce, plus extra for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Marinara sauce is perfect for pouring over the shells. It adds moisture and flavor. Fresh basil leaves are a lovely touch. They add color and a burst of freshness when you serve the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking.
2. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water. Add 20 jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, as per package instructions. Drain the shells. Place them on a clean kitchen towel to cool. This keeps them from sticking.
Filling and Stuffing
1. Prepare the filling: In a big bowl, mix 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Add 2 cups of finely chopped spinach, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 beaten egg, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well until everything blends nicely.
2. Stuff the shells: Use a spoon to fill each shell with the filling. Pack it snugly but not too tight. This helps prevent tearing.
Assembling and Baking
1. Assemble the dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of your baking dish. Place the stuffed shells upright in the dish. Pour the rest of the marinara sauce over them. Make sure each shell is covered for great flavor.
2. Add cheese: Top the shells with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella. Sprinkle it evenly across the dish.
3. Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the oven to bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. Look for melted and bubbly cheese that is lightly golden brown.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- Ensure pasta shells are al dente: Cook the jumbo pasta shells until they are just firm. This helps them hold the filling without falling apart. Follow package instructions and taste test for the right texture.
- How to avoid tearing shells: Handle the pasta shells gently. Use a spoon to fill them, and avoid overstuffing. If they stick together, rinse them under cold water to separate them.
Serving Suggestions
- Presentation tips: Serve the stuffed shells in individual bowls. Drizzle extra marinara sauce on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a nice finish. Add fresh basil leaves for color.
- Extra flavor enhancements: Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish. You can also serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Recipe Variations
- Using different cheeses: Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter option. Try goat cheese for a tangy twist. Mix in more mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Adding proteins or vegetables: Fold cooked chicken or sausage into the filling for added protein. You can also mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
Pro Tips
- Tip for Perfect Shells: Make sure to cook the pasta shells just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Chop Spinach Finely: Finely chopping the spinach ensures that it integrates well into the filling, providing a smooth and creamy texture.
- Layer of Flavor: For extra flavor, consider adding a layer of sautéed onions or mushrooms to the bottom of the baking dish before placing the shells.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying these creamy spinach ricotta stuffed shells, store leftovers properly. Place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to three days. If you want to save them for a longer time, consider freezing. To freeze, wrap the shells tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
To reheat stuffed shells, the oven is your best friend. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shells in a baking dish. Cover with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in short bursts until warm.
Make sure to check the temperature. The shells should be hot throughout. This helps maintain the creamy texture and rich flavors. Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first time!
Nutritional Information
Caloric Content
Each serving of creamy spinach ricotta stuffed shells contains about 350 calories. This includes the pasta, cheese, and sauce. A serving size typically consists of about 2-3 shells. This makes it a filling meal for dinner or lunch.
Additional Nutritional Insights
- Macronutrients:
- Fats: Approximately 18 grams
- Proteins: Roughly 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: About 30 grams
- Dietary Considerations:
This dish is vegetarian, making it a great option for those who avoid meat. It offers a good balance of nutrients from the cheese and spinach. If you need gluten-free options, you can use gluten-free pasta shells.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time? Yes, you can make stuffed shells ahead of time. Prepare the shells and fill them as usual. Cover the dish with plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add extra sauce if needed.
How do I know when the stuffed shells are done? Look for a bubbly, golden top. The cheese should melt and lightly brown. Use a fork to check the shells. They should feel hot and soft. If you want, use a food thermometer. The inside should reach 165°F (74°C).
Ingredient Substitutions
What can I replace ricotta cheese with? You can use cottage cheese instead of ricotta. Blend it for a smoother texture. Cream cheese is another option. It adds a rich flavor. For a non-dairy option, try tofu. Blend it with lemon juice and some salt for taste.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, fresh spinach works great in this recipe. You need about two cups of chopped fresh spinach. Cook it down to reduce moisture. This helps prevent watery filling. Squeeze out excess water if needed.
Dietary Adjustments
Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe is not gluten-free. The jumbo pasta shells contain wheat. However, you can find gluten-free pasta shells in stores. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.
Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, you can make dairy-free stuffed shells. Use dairy-free cheese for the filling. Look for dairy-free ricotta or cream cheese. Use marinara sauce without dairy. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients fit your needs.
In this post, we explored how to make delicious stuffed pasta shells. We covered key ingredients, like jumbo shells and creamy ricotta. You learned step-by-step instructions from preparation to baking. Helpful tips showed you how to avoid tearing shells and serve beautifully. We also discussed storage methods and provided nutritional insights.
Making stuffed shells is fun and rewarding. You can get creative with flavors and ingredients. Enjoy this cozy meal with family and friends!
