The combination of creamy ricotta, tender spinach, and rich tomato sauce makes this dish a standout. Each bite of these stuffed shells is packed with comforting flavors that are sure to impress. Perfect for a family dinner, these Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells offer a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of Italian-inspired goodness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to please!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the tomato sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium brown onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon tomato puree
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 oz each)
For the stuffed shells:
- 21 large pasta shells
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 6 ½ cups fresh spinach, packed (200g)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (250g)
- ⅔ cup grated mozzarella (140g ball)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Small handful fresh basil, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- ¼ cup vegetarian parmesan-style cheese, grated (50g)
- ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
Directions:
- Make the Tomato Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic and oregano. Add diced tomatoes, rinsing the cans with ¼ cup water each and adding that liquid to the skillet. Stir in balsamic vinegar and tomato puree. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes. - Prepare the Spinach and Pasta Shells:
Wilt the spinach in a skillet over medium heat, cooking in batches. Let cool, squeeze out excess water, and chop roughly. Cook pasta shells in well-salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. - Mix the Filling:
Combine ricotta, chopped spinach, grated parmesan, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until evenly combined. - Assemble the Dish:
Preheat oven to 356°F (180°C). Spread tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each pasta shell with about 2 teaspoons of filling and arrange on the sauce. Top with grated mozzarella and more parmesan. - Bake:
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the sauce is bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Prep Time: 17 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
Kcal: 392 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Perfect Comfort Dish: Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells
When it comes to hearty, family-friendly meals that feel both indulgent and nourishing, few dishes hit the mark quite like Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells. This classic Italian-inspired recipe combines the warmth of bubbling tomato sauce, the creaminess of cheese, and the freshness of spinach to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, feeding a crowd, or simply craving something cozy, this dish is bound to become a regular in your rotation.
Why This Recipe is a Standout
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells are beloved for their versatility and flavor. The combination of soft, al dente pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta cheese and vibrant spinach creates a delightful texture contrast. Topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. Here’s what makes this recipe a standout:
- Cheesy and Flavorful Filling: The ricotta filling is a creamy, cheesy delight, enhanced with fresh basil and a hint of nutmeg to elevate its flavor profile.
- Rich Tomato Sauce: A robust tomato sauce forms the base of the dish, offering the perfect counterbalance to the richness of the filling.
- Customizable Ingredients: From adding more vegetables to the filling to experimenting with different cheeses, this recipe is easy to adapt to your personal preferences.
- Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish can be assembled ahead of time or frozen for later use, ensuring you always have a comforting meal ready.
The Appeal of Italian Comfort Food
Italian cuisine is often synonymous with comfort food, and it’s easy to see why. Dishes like lasagna, risotto, and stuffed shells offer rich, satisfying flavors with relatively simple ingredients. The marriage of pasta, cheese, and tomato-based sauces has universal appeal, making Italian dishes a favorite worldwide.
Stuffed pasta shells, or Conchiglioni, exemplify this appeal. The shells themselves serve as edible vessels, creating the perfect pocket for flavorful fillings. In this case, the spinach and ricotta filling combines two key elements of Italian cooking: a focus on fresh ingredients and a commitment to bold yet balanced flavors.
Health Benefits of Spinach and Ricotta
While this dish leans heavily into comfort food territory, it also offers some nutritional benefits thanks to the inclusion of spinach and ricotta. Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Incorporating spinach into meals is an excellent way to boost your intake of leafy greens, especially for picky eaters who might otherwise avoid them.
Ricotta cheese, while creamy and indulgent, is also a good source of protein and calcium. By using fresh ingredients like these, you can enjoy a meal that feels decadent without completely compromising on nutrition.
Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Shells
Achieving the ideal stuffed shells involves a few key techniques:
- Cook Pasta to Al Dente: Under-cooking the pasta shells slightly ensures they retain their shape during the stuffing and baking process.
- Squeeze Excess Water from Spinach: Whether using fresh or frozen spinach, removing as much moisture as possible is crucial to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
- Generous Layer of Sauce: A thick base of tomato sauce not only adds flavor but also prevents the shells from drying out while baking.
- Don’t Overfill the Shells: Stuffing the shells just enough allows the filling to stay intact and avoids spillage during baking.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors of the stuffed shells. For a more indulgent meal, serve alongside garlic bread or a warm loaf of Italian focaccia. To complete the Italian experience, finish the meal with a light dessert like Tiramisu or a fruit-based sorbet.
If you’re hosting guests, consider serving a light appetizer like tomato bruschetta or a charcuterie board featuring Italian cheeses and cured meats. And of course, a glass of red wine perhaps a Chianti or Barbera can enhance the meal and bring out the flavors of the tomato sauce.
Recipe Variations
One of the best aspects of this dish is its flexibility. Here are some ways you can customize the recipe to suit your taste:
- Add More Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or roasted red peppers into the filling for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Boost Protein: Add cooked ground meat, crumbled sausage, or lentils to the tomato sauce to make the dish even heartier.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option or add mascarpone for an even creamier filling. A sprinkle of smoked gouda or provolone on top can add a unique twist.
- Make it Vegan: Swap out the ricotta and mozzarella for plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor in the filling.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the tomato sauce for a subtle heat.
Conclusion:
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. This dish brings people together, offering warmth, comfort, and a touch of indulgence. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight family dinner or serving it as the star of a dinner party, these stuffed shells are sure to impress.
The combination of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and a robust tomato sauce creates a harmony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and freezer-friendly nature, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your meal planning repertoire. So grab those jumbo shells, roll up your sleeves, and create a dish that will delight and satisfy.
