Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells [Recipe]
Welcome to a cozy corner of culinary delight with our Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells recipe. If you’re anything like me and adore the heavenly combo of spinach and ricotta, you’re in for a real treat! This dish wraps these favorites in tender pasta shells, smothered in a savory tomato sauce. It’s a simple yet sophisticated meal that promises comfort in every bite. Don’t have ricotta on hand? Feel free to swap it out for cream cheese for a twist on the traditional texture.
Why Will You Love this Recipe?
- Italian Flavors at Home: Experience the rich and robust essence of Italy right from your kitchen, thanks to the classic pairing of tomato, garlic, and herbs.
- Comfort Food Favorite: There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish baked with love, filled with creamy cheese and spinach, perfect for any day of the week.
- Easy to Make, Delight to Serve: This recipe is straightforward but makes you look like a seasoned chef when you lay this beautiful dish on the table for family or guests.
Recipe Variations
- Bacon Boost: For an extra pop of flavor, sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top before baking; it adds a delightful crunch and smoky taste.
- Veggie-Packed Sauce: Amp up the health factor by tossing more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini into the red sauce.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses; try mozzarella for meltiness or a sprinkle of parmesan for a sharper taste.
Tools You’ll Need
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Air Fryer Chicken Caprese Recipe
- Low-Carb Cheesy Cauliflower Breadsticks
- Easy Cold Chicken Pasta Salad
- Stracciatella Pasta – Recipe with Pesto
- Lasagna Soup
- Boneless Chicken Thigh Piccata
Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
Ingredients
RED SAUCE
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 28 oz chopped tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of pepper
FILLING
- 7 oz fresh spinach
- 8.8 oz ricotta cheese or other fresh cheese
- 1.4 oz grated hard cheese
- A pinch of pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of nutmeg
ADDITIONAL
- 4.4 oz mozzarella
- 23 pasta shells (conchiglioni)
Instructions
- Sauté onion with garlic and oregano. Season lightly with salt.
- Add remaining ingredients and cook for about 15 minutes on medium heat.
- Cook spinach, drain well, and chop finely. Mix with the remaining ingredients for the filling.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Meanwhile, almost cook the pasta shells in salted water. Drain them 2-3 minutes before they are done cooking and let them cool slightly.
- Spread the tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each shell with about 2 teaspoons of filling. Arrange and press slightly into the sauce.
- Sprinkle with grated mozzarella and bake in the oven for 30 minutes.
Nutrition
Before diving into the nutritional details, please review our Nutritional Disclaimer page for important context and clarifications.