Creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta are like a warm hug for your taste buds, enveloping you in rich flavors and delightful textures. Picture this: tender pasta shells bursting with creamy goodness, mingling with fresh spinach and velvety ricotta, all topped off with a sprinkle of cheese that melts like a dream. creamy ice cream recipes It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, ready to dig in and share stories while savoring every bite.

Jump to:
- Ingredients for creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta
- How to Make creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What are creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta?
- How do I store leftover creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta?
- Can I make creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta ahead of time?
- What variations can I try for creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta?
- Conclusion for creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta :
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you back to my childhood kitchen, where my grandmother would whip up these heavenly shells on special occasions. The aroma of garlic and cheese wafted through the air, making it nearly impossible to concentrate on anything else. This creamy stuffed pasta became our family tradition for Sunday dinners, bringing warmth and laughter to the table. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones, stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta will surely steal the show.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These creamy stuffed pasta shells offer an effortless cooking experience for even the busiest weeknights.
- The explosion of flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Their beautiful presentation makes them perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
- You can easily modify the filling with your favorite ingredients or seasonal veggies for added variety.
Ingredients for creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Pasta Shells: About 20-25 shells are ideal for stuffing; they should be firm enough to hold their shape during cooking.
- Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh ricotta for the best flavor; it’s creamy and blends beautifully with other ingredients.
- Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green leaves; you can use baby spinach or regular, but make sure it’s thoroughly washed.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a salty kick; save some for topping before baking!
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
- Marinara Sauce: A good quality sauce will enhance flavors; choose your favorite brand or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp on tasting as you go!
For the Sauce:
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil is perfect for sautéing garlic and spinach, adding richness to your filling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the large pasta shells and cook them according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully so they don’t break apart—trust me; no one wants a sad shell.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the shells cool down slightly, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about a minute). Toss in fresh spinach and cook until wilted and vibrant green. vibrant beet salad Remove from heat and let it cool before mixing it into ricotta cheese along with grated parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Stuff those Shells
Once cooled enough to handle, take each shell and generously fill it with your creamy mixture—don’t be shy! You want them bursting at the seams (but not literally). Place each stuffed shell in a greased baking dish lined with marinara sauce.
Step 4: Cover and Bake
Pour remaining marinara sauce over the filled shells—yes, drown them lovingly! Sprinkle some more parmesan cheese on top because we all know cheese is life. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes.
Step 5: Uncover and Broil
Remove the foil carefully (hot steam alert), then broil on high for an additional five minutes until they’re golden brown on top—this is where magic happens!
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer those beauties onto plates or serve straight from the baking dish if you’re feeling casual (we won’t judge). Garnish with fresh basil if you have it handy because we all want our dishes looking like Instagram stars!
Now grab your forks and dive into this cheesy wonderland—you deserve every delicious bite!
You Must Know
- This creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta recipe not only delights the taste buds but also simplifies your dinner routine.
- The blend of flavors and textures makes it a feast for the eyes and palate, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta shells until al dente while you prepare the ricotta filling. Sauté spinach until wilted, then mix everything together. As the pasta cooks, whip up a quick sauce. Layer it all in a baking dish for fantastic results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spinach for other greens like kale or Swiss chard. Consider adding some cooked chicken or mushrooms for extra protein and flavor. A sprinkle of nutmeg can also elevate the creaminess of your ricotta filling!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover creamy stuffed pasta shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect creamy stuffed pasta shells, don’t overcook your pasta; it should be al dente to hold the filling well.
- Always let your filling cool slightly before stuffing to avoid soggy shells.
- Finally, remember to season every layer; flavor is key!
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter echoed louder than our forks clinking against plates. Everyone devoured every last shell, leaving only happy faces and full bellies behind!
FAQs :
What are creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta?
Creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta are large pasta shells filled with a delightful mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and seasonings. This dish is baked in a rich, creamy sauce, often topped with mozzarella cheese for added flavor. crispy broccoli cheese balls It’s a perfect combination of textures and tastes, making it a favorite among pasta lovers.
How do I store leftover creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta?
To store leftover stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each shell individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta ahead of time. Assemble the dish but do not bake it yet. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours prior to baking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
What variations can I try for creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta?
You can try several variations for creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor. You may also substitute other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different taste. For those who prefer meat, adding cooked ground turkey or sausage can enhance this delicious recipe further. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe recipe.
Conclusion for creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta :
Creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach & ricotta are a delicious and versatile dish that everyone will love. With their rich filling and flavorful sauce, they make an excellent meal for any occasion. Preparing them ahead of time adds convenience without sacrificing taste, allowing you to enjoy this delightful recipe whenever you wish. protein-packed bean salad Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect combination!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Creamy Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach & Ricotta
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Creamy stuffed pasta shells with spinach and ricotta are a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. These large pasta shells are generously filled with a luscious blend of creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic, all baked in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe will impress everyone with its delightful flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
- 20–25 large pasta shells
- 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta shells until al dente. Drain carefully.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with ricotta, half of the Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the mixture and place them in a greased baking dish lined with marinara sauce.
- Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the rest of the Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and broil for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve hot, garnished with basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed pasta shells (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg