Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are a delightful twist on classic stuffed pasta recipes. These shells offer a blend of rich cheesy goodness, vibrant spinach flavors, and the comfort of a creamy filling. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions, this dish is bound to impress with its savory taste and elegant presentation. What makes this recipe even more appealing is its straightforward preparation and the indulgence of gooey cheese combined with nutritious spinach, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal option.

Ingredients

  • 1 box jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.

4. Add chopped spinach and minced garlic to the cheese mixture, combining thoroughly.

Cooking Process

1. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

2. Fill each cooked shell with the cheese and spinach mixture, then place in the baking dish.

3. Cover the shells with the remaining marinara sauce.

4. Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top and cover with foil.

5. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

Serving & Storage

Serving Suggestions

These Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells can be served with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. The shells pair wonderfully with a light white wine or a fruity iced tea.

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, place the shells in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. Avoid freezing as the texture may become watery.

Variations

For a meaty twist, incorporate cooked ground sausage or beef into the cheese mixture. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for an extra burst of umami flavor. Experiment with different cheese blends like fontina or provolone for a unique taste profile. To make it spicy, mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well before adding it to the cheese mixture. Adjust the quantity based on your preference.

Can I prepare Spinach Stuffed Shells in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This is a convenient option for meal prepping or entertaining guests. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free jumbo shells or substitute with large zucchinis sliced lengthwise. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free and check marinara sauce labels for any hidden gluten.

What is the best way to reheat leftover Stuffed Shells?

The best way to reheat leftover Spinach Stuffed Shells is in the oven. Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal option, though the texture may be slightly softer.

Conclusion

Indulge in the delectable flavors of Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for a satisfying and comforting dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian crowd-pleaser or a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed pasta, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Easy to prepare, versatile in variations, and a treat for the taste buds, these stuffed shells are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Try them for your next gathering and savor the cheesy goodness balanced with vibrant spinach for a truly delightful meal!

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Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells


  • Author: yamna81
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Description

Indulge in Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells, filled with creamy ricotta, spinach, and melty mozzarella. A culinary hug!


Ingredients

Scale

1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 large egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the thawed and drained spinach to the skillet, cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Add the spinach mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
  7. Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  8. Stuff each cooked shell with the spinach and cheese mixture and place in the baking dish.
  9. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  10. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  11. Let the stuffed shells cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

These cheesy spinach stuffed shells make a delicious vegetarian main dish or can be served as a side alongside a protein of your choice.

Feel free to add in additional herbs or spices to customize the flavors to your liking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6-8

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