These Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells are the definition of comfort food! Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, mixed with fresh spinach and fragrant basil. Everything is baked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melty cheese for an irresistible dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Not only is this dish incredibly easy to make, but it’s also versatile! You can add Italian sausage for extra heartiness or keep it vegetarian for a classic meat-free meal. Pair it with a crisp side salad and some warm garlic bread for the ultimate Italian feast!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 20-25 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz.) marinara sauce
- 16 oz. Italian sausage (optional)
- 15 oz. whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (plus extra for serving)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 4 cups chopped fresh baby spinach (pat dry with paper towels)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil water and cook jumbo pasta shells al dente (8-9 minutes). Drain and set aside on parchment paper to cool.
- If using Italian sausage, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Set aside.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add spinach and sauté until wilted (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and cool.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta, spinach mixture, egg, mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each shell with a heaping tablespoon of ricotta mixture and place them in the dish. If using sausage, layer it in the shells before adding cheese mixture.
- Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and cover with foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, and bake for another 5-10 minutes until cheese melts.
- Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 535 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The History of Stuffed Shells
Stuffed shells, or conchiglioni ripieni, originate from Italian cuisine, where pasta has been a culinary staple for centuries. The term “conchiglioni” comes from the Italian word “conchiglia,” which means “shell,” and refers to the large, ridged pasta that resembles a seashell.
While lasagna and cannelloni are also popular baked pasta dishes, stuffed shells provide a unique alternative with their individual portions, making them easier to serve and enjoy. Traditionally, stuffed pasta dishes were filled with ingredients like ricotta cheese, spinach, and meats such as sausage or ground beef. Over time, variations emerged, including seafood-filled shells and even vegan-friendly versions.
Today, stuffed shells are a staple in Italian-American households, where they are often served for Sunday dinners, holidays, and family gatherings. Their ease of preparation and comforting flavors make them a beloved dish worldwide.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best aspects of Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells is its adaptability. Whether you want to add more protein, experiment with different cheeses, or use a unique sauce, there are countless ways to customize this dish.
1. Meat Lover’s Stuffed Shells
If you prefer a heartier meal, consider adding cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken to the ricotta filling. The savory flavors of the meat pair perfectly with the creamy cheese and tangy marinara sauce. You can also layer the meat in the bottom of the baking dish before adding the stuffed shells.
2. Cheese Variations
While ricotta is the star of the filling, you can experiment with different cheeses to enhance the flavor. Fontina, Asiago, cottage cheese, or even goat cheese can add a unique taste and texture. Mixing in sharp Parmesan or extra mozzarella makes the filling even more indulgent.
3. Sauce Alternatives
Though marinara is the traditional choice, you can switch things up with different sauces:
- Alfredo Sauce – A creamy, buttery alternative for a richer taste.
- Pesto Sauce – Fresh basil and garlic pesto add a vibrant and herbaceous flavor.
- Vodka Sauce – A creamy tomato-based sauce with a slight kick.
- Arrabbiata Sauce – For those who love spice, this fiery tomato sauce brings heat to the dish.
4. Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
For a vegan-friendly version, replace ricotta with dairy-free alternatives like tofu ricotta or cashew cheese. Swap out the egg for a flaxseed egg or leave it out entirely. Use plant-based mozzarella and Parmesan substitutes for a delicious dairy-free version.
5. Extra Vegetables
If you want to add more nutrients, mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also enhances the texture and depth of flavor.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells
While stuffed shells are relatively easy to prepare, a few simple tips can help you achieve the best results:
1. Cook Pasta Al Dente
Jumbo shells should be cooked just until al dente (slightly firm) because they will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooking them can make them too soft, leading to breakage and a mushy texture.
2. Dry the Spinach Well
Spinach contains a lot of moisture, which can make the filling too watery. After cooking the spinach, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the ricotta.
3. Use High-Quality Ricotta
For the creamiest filling, opt for whole milk ricotta rather than low-fat varieties. If the ricotta is too watery, drain it using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve before mixing it with other ingredients.
4. Avoid Overstuffing
While it might be tempting to pack each shell with a lot of filling, overstuffing can cause the mixture to spill out while baking. Use about one heaping tablespoon of filling per shell for the best results.
5. Layer Sauce Generously
Coating the bottom of the baking dish with marinara sauce prevents the shells from sticking and keeps them moist while baking. Adding extra sauce on top ensures they remain juicy and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed shells are a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with complementary sides can make for an even more satisfying dinner. Here are a few great serving ideas:
1. Side Salads
A fresh green salad balances out the richness of the dish. Try serving with:
- Classic Caesar Salad
- Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing
- Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil
2. Bread Pairings
Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce. Consider serving with:
- Garlic Bread
- Homemade Focaccia
- Parmesan Breadsticks
3. Wine Pairing
If you’re serving these shells for a special occasion, pair them with a delicious Italian wine:
- Chianti – A dry red wine with notes of cherry and spice
- Pinot Grigio – A crisp white wine that complements the creamy ricotta filling
- Sangiovese – A medium-bodied red that balances the acidity of the marinara sauce
4. Dessert Options
Finish the meal with a classic Italian dessert:
- Tiramisu – A creamy and coffee-flavored delight
- Cannoli – Crispy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cream
- Panna Cotta – A silky Italian custard with fruit toppings
Conclusion:
Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells are the perfect combination of comforting, cheesy, and flavorful goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is easy to make and guaranteed to please.
Its versatility allows you to customize the filling, swap sauces, or add extra ingredients, making it adaptable to any taste or dietary preference. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead and freezer-friendly dish, allowing you to prepare in advance for busy days.
