Looking for a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and comfort? This cheesy spinach and ricotta jumbo shells lasagna is just the ticket. Layered with rich tomato sauce and creamy cheeses, it’s a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that’s sure to please everyone at your dinner table.
Imagine sinking your fork into tender jumbo pasta shells, each filled with a savory mixture of spinach and ricotta. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between cheesy goodness and fresh flavors, making it a standout option for family dinners or gatherings.
This lasagna is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, each bite will leave you craving more.
Delicious Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Jumbo Shells
Imagine a cozy evening with a warm plate of cheesy spinach and ricotta jumbo shells lasagna. These generously stuffed shells promise a delightful blend of flavors, creating a dish that is both hearty and comforting.
The creamy filling, crafted from ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, pairs beautifully with the rich marinara sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella, this dish offers a satisfying experience that appeals to both the senses and the palate.
The Perfect Ingredients
Quality ingredients play a vital role in achieving the best flavor profile for your lasagna. Start with jumbo pasta shells, which serve as the perfect vessel for the creamy filling.
Ricotta cheese lends a smooth texture, while fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition. Don’t forget the aromatic marinara sauce, which provides a beautiful contrast to the creamy stuffed shells.
Layering for Flavor
Layering is key in crafting this cheesy delight. Begin by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce at the base of your baking dish.
Carefully fill each shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture, then place them snugly in the dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese for that perfect golden crust.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), creating the ideal environment for baking. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to ensure even cooking and retain moisture.
After a short bake, remove the foil to allow the cheese to bubble and brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely tempt everyone nearby!
Garnishing and Serving
Once baked, this dish is ready for garnishing. A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a vibrant touch and elevates the visual appeal.
Serving it hot allows the flavors to shine. Grab a spatula and serve generous portions, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this delightful meal.
Enjoying the Experience
Gather your family or friends around the table, ready to enjoy a comforting dish that combines richness with freshness. Each bite reveals layers of cheesy goodness and savory flavors, perfect for any occasion.
This cheesy spinach and ricotta jumbo shells lasagna is not just a meal; it’s an experience that encourages connection over food. Enjoy!
Delicious Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Jumbo Shells
These jumbo shells are generously filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture, layered in an aromatic tomato sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella. The taste is a delightful combination of savory and creamy, with a hint of freshness from the spinach.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each jumbo shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in the dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g