If you’re craving hearty Italian food yet looking for a quick and easy recipe, these classic stuffed shells with ricotta deliver the perfect solution. Packed with cheese and spinach, they make for a satisfying dinner with minimal effort.
- Cuisine: Italian
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-5
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights.
- Delivers authentic Italian flavors with minimal ingredients.
- Spinach adds a healthy twist without compromising taste.
- Makes great leftovers, just reheat and enjoy.
Ingredients
- 19-20 jumbo pasta shells: These serve as the vehicle for the filling. Cook until al dente for best results.
- 4 cups fresh spinach: Adds nutrients and freshness. Frozen spinach, thawed and drained, can be used as a substitute.
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing garlic and spinach, enhancing flavors.
- 3 cups marinara sauce: Base layer of the dish. Choose a high-quality store-bought sauce or make your own.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed: Provides aromatic depth. Adjust to taste.
- 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese: The primary filling ingredient, lending creaminess. Do not substitute with low-fat to maintain texture.
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided: For both filling and topping, ensures a gooey, cheesy dish.
- 1/4 cup fresh parmesan cheese, shredded: Adds sharpness and depth. Pecorino can be used in a pinch.
- 1 1/2 teaspoon homemade Italian seasoning: Enhances the Italian flavor profile. A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme works well as a substitute.
- 1 whole egg: Binds the filling, providing structure.
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt: Seasons the filling. Adjust according to taste and dietary needs.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a touch of spice to the filling.
- Parsley, for garnish, optional: Adds color and freshness before serving.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Coat a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray to ensure the shells don’t stick, making later cleanup a breeze. Set aside the dish for assembling later.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells following the package instructions until they reach al dente, about 11 minutes. Drain the shells and lightly coat with olive oil to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 3: Sauté the Spinach
In a large frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the spinach and sauté until it wilts, about 3 minutes. Remove any excess liquid before chopping the spinach for the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Pour the marinara sauce into the prepared baking dish to create a base layer. In a large bowl, combine the cooled spinach, ricotta, 2 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Stuff each shell with about 2 heaping tablespoons of the ricotta filling and arrange them over the marinara sauce. Top the shells with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and turn golden. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be a convenient alternative. Make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess water, which can affect the filling’s texture.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the entire dish ahead and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking, or adjust the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
What should I serve alongside these stuffed shells?
These shells are a complete meal on their own, but they pair well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a more balanced spread.
