Looking for a delicious way to enjoy spinach? These savory stuffed shells are a perfect combination of tender pasta, creamy cheese, and fresh spinach. It’s a dish that’s not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal option for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
These stuffed shells are a delightful twist on traditional Italian cuisine, featuring a rich ricotta filling blended with sautéed spinach and topped with your favorite marinara sauce. The blend of flavors and textures creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
Vibrant Presentation of Stuffed Shells
The visual appeal of spinach and cheese stuffed shells is undeniable. Each shell, generously filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, sits elegantly atop a bed of rich marinara sauce. The melted mozzarella cascading over the top adds a glossy finish, creating a mouthwatering sight that draws attention to any dining table.
Garnished with fresh parsley, the dish boasts not just flavor but also a colorful contrast that enhances its overall presentation. The vibrant greens of the spinach stand out beautifully against the warm reds of the sauce. When served alongside a crisp green salad, the entire plate offers a feast for the eyes, making it a perfect centerpiece for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings.
Flavorful Filling Options
The filling for these stuffed shells is where the magic begins. A blend of ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, and a touch of garlic creates a creamy, delightful mixture that is both comforting and satisfying. Adding a hint of Parmesan cheese boosts the flavor profile, contributing a nutty note that complements the other ingredients wonderfully.
Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or cheeses in the filling to suit personal tastes. Fresh basil, for instance, can add a fragrant twist, while swapping out ricotta for goat cheese introduces a tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the marinara sauce.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shells
Achieving the perfect stuffed shells requires attention to detail at every step. Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, ensuring they hold their shape during the stuffing process. Once drained, allow them to cool slightly before filling; this prevents burns and makes handling easier.
Sautéing the spinach until just wilted enhances its flavor and texture, integrating it seamlessly into the cheesy filling. Remember to let it cool before mixing it with the cheeses to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency in each bite.
Baking to Perfection
Baking these stuffed shells is where they truly come to life. Covering the dish with aluminum foil for the first part of the baking process allows the flavors to meld while keeping the shells moist. Removing the foil towards the end lets the cheese bubble and turn golden, creating a delightful texture that contrasts with the soft pasta.
Watch closely during the final minutes of baking; the aroma wafting through the kitchen will be tempting, and you want to achieve that perfect golden top without overcooking. Once out of the oven, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, making the dish inviting and appetizing.
Nutritional Benefits
Delicious Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells Recipe
Each bite of these stuffed shells is a harmonious blend of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and tangy marinara sauce. The dish is rich and flavorful, perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more greens into their meals.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the jumbo shells in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Spinach: In a skillet, sauté the chopped spinach over medium heat until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, cooked spinach, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the Shells: Fill each pasta shell with the spinach and cheese mixture and place them in a baking dish.
- Add Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining 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, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g