Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

A classic Italian-inspired comfort dish perfect for family dinners

KEY INFO

– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 65 minutes
– Servings: 6 (16-18 shells)
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Diet: Vegetarian

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

– Large pot
– Colander
– Large skillet
– Mixing bowl
– 9×13 inch baking dish
– Measuring cups and spoons
Alternative: Use a ziplock bag for piping filling

INGREDIENTS

For the Shells:

– 18-20 jumbo pasta shells (about 6-7oz/200g)
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
– 1 teaspoon (5g) salt for pasta water

For the Filling:

– 15oz (425g) whole milk ricotta cheese
– 10oz (280g) frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
– 1 cup (100g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup (50g) parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 large egg
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

– 24oz (680g) marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup (50g) additional mozzarella for topping

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)

2. Cook pasta:
– Boil shells in salted water until al dente (about 9 minutes)
– Drain and lay flat to cool
– Drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking

3. Prepare filling:
– Sauté onion until translucent (5-7 minutes)
– Add garlic, cook for 1 minute
– Mix ricotta, spinach, cheeses, egg, and sautéed vegetables
– Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper

4. Assemble:
– Spread 1 cup sauce in baking dish
– Fill each shell with 2-3 tablespoons filling
– Arrange in dish, top with remaining sauce and mozzarella

5. Bake:
– Cover with foil
– Bake 25 minutes
– Uncover and bake 10 more minutes until bubbly and golden

CRUCIAL TIPS

– Squeeze spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture
– Don’t overcook shells – they’ll continue cooking in the oven
– Let rest 10 minutes before serving

Storage:

– Refrigerate up to 4 days
– Freeze uncooked for up to 3 months

Common Mistakes:

– Overcooked pasta becomes mushy
– Wet filling makes shells soggy
– Underseasoned filling lacks flavor

Variations:

– Add mushrooms to filling
– Use different cheese combinations
– Try vodka sauce or alfredo instead of marinara

This recipe delivers perfectly cooked pasta shells filled with a creamy, cheesy spinach mixture that’s sure to become a family favorite.