Italian comfort cuisine is celebrated in these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This meal delicately stuffs fragile pasta shells with the healthy freshness of spinach and the creamy richness of ricotta cheese. With its golden, bubbling mozzarella on top and baked in a layer of marinara sauce, this meal is comforting.
What You Can Learn From This Recipe?
Learn how to blend textures in baked foods and create a decadent cheese filling. Additionally, you will learn how to put up a traditional Italian-style casserole that is ideal for entertaining or meal planning.
What I Love About This Recipe?
I love this dish’s versatility and satisfaction. With little work, it offers the comforting aromas of Italy to your table and is a hit with both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until well heated.
What to Serve With It?
Serve these stuffed shells with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad. The dinner is wonderfully complemented by a glass of red wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Description
Tender pasta shells are stuffed with a rich mixture of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and sautéed spinach in these hearty Italian-inspired spinach ricotta stuffed shells. This dish, which is topped with bubbling melted cheese and baked in a bed of marinara sauce, is filling and substantial. These stuffed shells provide a lovely blend of flavors and textures, making them ideal for a make-ahead supper or an intimate dinner with loved ones.
For the Filling
For Assembly
Making of Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Preparing the Filling
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- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, cooked spinach, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well-blended.
Cooking the Pasta
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- Boil the pasta shells in salted water until slightly undercooked (al dente).
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Assembling the Dish
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- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture and place them in the baking dish seam-side up.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Baking
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- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16g25%
- Saturated Fat 9g45%
- Cholesterol 55mg19%
- Sodium 620mg26%
- Potassium 300mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- For added flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving.
- You can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- To save time, use frozen spinach; just ensure it’s fully thawed and drained.
Journey of Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells
More than just a meal, spinach ricotta stuffed shells are a representation of coziness and custom. Pasta and cheese have been mainstays for ages in the heart of Italy, where this Italian-inspired dish has its origins. Let's explore the creation of this cheesy, creamy, and incredibly fulfilling dish.
The Historical Context
Pasta stuffing dates back to ancient times, when different types of stuffed pasta first appeared throughout Italy. Stuffed pastas, like ravioli and tortellini, were made by hand in areas like Emilia-Romagna and Campania, filled with fresh ingredients, and served on special occasions. But pasta shells weren't invented until much later. Conchiglioni, or jumbo shells, were made especially for stuffing and provide a substantial container for contents.
A favorite combination in Italian cooking, spinach and ricotta, gained popularity as stuffing. The mild flavor and creamy texture of ricotta create a pleasing balance with the slightly bitter taste of spinach. In Italy, these components were easily accessible, making them a sensible option for household cooks. Because of its adaptability and simplicity, the dish has become a household favorite throughout time.
From Italy to the World
Numerous well-loved dishes traveled across oceans to new places as a result of Italian immigration in the 19th and 20th centuries. In America, where the meal was modified to accommodate regional ingredients and tastes, spinach ricotta stuffed shells gained a lot of popularity. The rich, acidic flavor of the marinara sauce foundation, a mainstay of Italian-American cooking, enhanced the creamy filling.
The meal became popular at potlucks, family dinners, and even upscale eating establishments. Its simplicity—a few high-quality ingredients, little preparation, and a decadent, unique outcome—is what makes it so appealing.
The Significance of Spinach and Ricotta
Since the Middle Ages, spinach has been a popular green in Italian cooking since it is high in iron and vitamins. It balances the richness of the cheese and provides a hint of earthiness. As a by-product of whey, ricotta—often referred to as "the cheese of the poor"—is a cheap yet opulent component in Italian cooking. When combined, they represent ingenuity and the skill of transforming ordinary components into something remarkable.
Modern Appeal
A dish that may be adapted to many different lifestyles, spinach ricotta stuffed shells are popular nowadays. It's a popular vegetarian recipe, a hearty family dinner, and a sophisticated choice for dinner parties. Additionally, it has become well-liked as a freezer-friendly recipe that is ideal for meal planning or giving as a present to loved ones during hectic times.
Different types of filled shells have appeared as a result of the expansion of international cuisine. Some pay homage to classic Italian seasoning by adding a touch of nutmeg to the filling, while others add contemporary touches like sun-dried tomatoes or a covering of béchamel sauce. Because of its versatility, the meal will continue to be popular and relevant among younger generations.
Fun Facts About Pasta Shells
The Italian word conchiglia, which means "seashell," is the source of the name conchiglioni. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, the ridges on the shells aid in the adherence of sauces to the pasta, guaranteeing that every bite is tasty. To ensure a satisfying bite, jumbo shells are made especially for heavy contents like ricotta.
A Culinary Embrace
More than just a dish, spinach ricotta stuffed shells serve as a reminder of the happiness that comes from sharing a meal with others. Every shell is a tribute to the beauty of straightforward, healthful cuisine, meticulously filled and baked to perfection. One cheesy nibble at a time, this meal unites people whether it's served for a joyous occasion or a weeknight dinner.
We appreciate you coming along on this gastronomic adventure with us. We wish you pleasure in creating and distributing this reassuring classic. Cheers!
