Description
These Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are a comforting Italian classic, filled with a creamy ricotta-spinach mixture and topped with mozzarella, then baked in a savory spaghetti sauce. A satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Ingredients
24 uncooked large pasta shells
Pinch of salt and drizzle of oil (to prevent sticking and season the water)
48 oz spaghetti sauce (or as needed)
2 cups diced onion (white or yellow)
3–4 cloves garlic (smashed and minced)
5 oz fresh baby spinach (chopped)
16 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
1 heaping cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (approx. 2 oz)
1 tsp Italian seasoning blend (salt-free Mrs. Dash recommended)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried parsley
1 tsp dried basil
½ to 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1–2 large eggs (for a fluffier ricotta filling)
1–2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare 1-2 large glass baking dishes by spreading a 1-inch layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom. You can add extra sauce if you prefer saucier shells.
Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil the pasta shells in salted water with a drizzle of oil for about 11 minutes, or until tender/al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Filling: While the pasta is boiling, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the spinach. Sauté the onions and garlic together on medium-high heat in a small pan until softened and fragrant.
Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, and all the herbs and spices. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the mixture. If you prefer a thicker filling, whisk 1-2 eggs and fold them into the ricotta mixture.
Stuff the Shells: Spoon the ricotta mixture into each pasta shell and place them in the prepared baking dish. If desired, drizzle extra sauce over the shells or leave them bare to showcase the filling.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle freshly grated mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese over the stuffed shells. For added flavor, sprinkle extra red pepper flakes and dried basil on top of the cheese.
Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish lightly with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the sauce is bubbling. If the cheese hasn’t fully melted, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Serve: Serve immediately, enjoying the cheesy, creamy goodness of these stuffed shells!
Notes
These Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells make a fantastic comfort meal, packed with flavor and the perfect combination of cheese and vegetables.
They are also ideal for meal prepping or serving at gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
