Looking for a comforting dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures? These cheesy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are just what you need. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked pasta shell filled with a creamy blend of ricotta and spinach, all smothered in tangy marinara sauce. It’s a taste sensation that brings together the freshness of spinach and the heartiness of cheese, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Visual Appeal of Stuffed Shells
The sight of cheesy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells can instantly make any meal feel special. Nestled comfortably in a baking dish, these shells boast a warm, inviting look. The vibrant green of the spinach mixed with the creamy ricotta cheese creates a delightful contrast against the rich red of the marinara sauce.
As they bake, the mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, bubbling up and forming a golden crust that invites everyone to dig in. Each shell is generously coated, ensuring that every bite is a burst of flavor. The addition of fresh basil adds a touch of brightness that enhances both the presentation and the taste.
Texture and Flavor Harmony
Texturally, this dish offers a wonderful balance. The firm yet tender pasta shells cradle a creamy filling, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft, melted cheese topping. When you cut into one of these shells, the filling oozes out, mingling with the marinara sauce.
The combination of ricotta and spinach brings a richness that complements the acidity of the sauce. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the smoothness of the cheese to the herbaceous notes of the spinach, creating a comforting harmony that resonates with traditional Italian cuisine.
Preparation Process
Preparing cheesy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells is both straightforward and rewarding. The first step involves cooking the pasta, ensuring the shells are al dente to hold up against the filling and sauce. This step is crucial, as it sets the foundation for the entire dish.
Next, the filling is prepared by mixing ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, and spices. This mixture is where the flavor truly begins to develop, promising a hearty taste in every bite. Stuffing each shell can be a fun and engaging task, allowing you to customize the amount of filling to your preference.
Baking to Perfection
Once stuffed, the shells are placed in a baking dish covered with marinara sauce, creating an inviting base. Topping them with mozzarella cheese is where the dish transforms; as it bakes, the cheese melts and bubbles, forming that iconic golden layer that everyone loves.
The baking time is essential—first covered to allow the shells to heat through, then uncovered to achieve a crispy, cheesy top. This dual-stage baking ensures that every component reaches its peak flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
When ready to serve, the dish can be garnished with fresh basil leaves, adding a burst of color and a hint of aromatic freshness. This small touch not only enhances the appearance but also elevates the overall flavor profile, making each bite even more irresistible.
Pairing these stuffed shells with a simple side salad or garlic bread can round out the meal beautifully, creating a delightful dining experience. Whether for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
Nutritional Benefits
Beyond their delicious taste, cheesy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells also offer nutritional benefits. Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, while ricotta provides a good source of protein and calcium. This combination makes for a balanced meal that pleases the palate while nourishing the body.
The dish serves four, making it a perfect option for small gatherings or meal prepping for the week ahead. Each serving is a hearty portion, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
This recipe features large pasta shells stuffed with a creamy mixture of ricotta, spinach, and herbs, then baked in a flavorful marinara sauce. The result is a comforting dish that’s cheesy, savory, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon some marinara sauce into a baking dish to coat the bottom. Fill each pasta shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture and place them in the baking dish.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: 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: 400kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g