Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells! They are the ultimate comfort food that just warms your heart with every bite. Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and you’re craving something cozy and delicious. That’s when I whip up these beauties! The combination of the creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and fresh spinach is just divine. I remember my first time making them for a family dinner; everyone raved about how they paired perfectly with a simple salad or as a side to my homemade marinara sauce. They’re so versatile too! Whether you’re serving them alongside a grilled chicken breast or just enjoying them on their own, these stuffed shells never disappoint. Trust me, you’ll want to add this recipe to your go-to list for any occasion!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells. I’ve broken it down for you to keep things super clear and simple. Trust me, fresh ingredients make all the difference!
- 20 jumbo pasta shells: These are the big, beautiful shells that will hold all that creamy filling!
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. You can chop it roughly; it doesn’t need to be perfect!
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese is the heart of the filling. It gives that rich, smooth texture we all love.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: For that melty goodness! Shredded mozzarella is best because it melts beautifully.
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the whole dish. Trust me, don’t skip this one!
- 1 egg: This helps bind everything together. It’s like the glue for your filling!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A little sprinkle for a pop of flavor. If you love garlic, feel free to add more!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs really brings out those Italian vibes. You can adjust it to your taste!
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce to pour over the shells. It’s the perfect finishing touch!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking; it makes every bite more delicious!
How to Prepare Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—preparing these delicious Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells! Trust me, it’s easier than it looks, and I promise you’ll be so proud of yourself when you pull that bubbling dish out of the oven!
Cooking the Pasta Shells
First things first, cook those jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. I usually bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and then gently add the shells. Make sure not to overcook them! You want them al dente since they’ll finish cooking in the oven. About 8-10 minutes should do the trick. Once they’re ready, drain them and run a little cold water over them to stop the cooking process. This way, they won’t stick together!
Preparing the Filling
While the shells are cooking, let’s whip up that cheesy filling! In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. If you want to tweak the flavors, feel free to add a pinch more garlic or some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick! This filling is so creamy and rich—just heavenly!
Assembling the Dish
Now comes the fun part—filling those shells! Take a spoonful of your cheesy mixture and gently fill each shell, making sure they’re nice and packed. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to keep the shells from sticking. Then, arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Don’t be shy with that sauce; it just adds to the flavor and keeps everything moist!
Baking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is bubbly and the sauce is hot. If you want that golden top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on them—you don’t want to burn that beautiful cheese!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy cheeses and fresh spinach creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist. It’s like a party for your taste buds!
- Easy to Prepare: Even if you’re not a kitchen pro, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to whip up a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These stuffed shells make a great side dish for family dinners or gatherings. You can pre-make them ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready!
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach and protein-rich cheeses, these shells are not just tasty but also loaded with nutrients. They’re a great way to sneak in some greens!
- Versatile Pairing: Whether served alongside grilled meats, as part of a vegetarian feast, or even on their own, these stuffed shells fit seamlessly into any meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Trust me, everyone will love them! They’re a guaranteed hit at dinner parties, potlucks, or even just a cozy night at home.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make these Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells, let me share some of my best tips to ensure they turn out absolutely perfect! I’ve made my fair share of mistakes in the kitchen, so trust me when I say these pointers will make a difference.
- Don’t Overcook the Shells: It’s super important to cook the pasta shells just until they’re al dente. Remember, they’ll continue to cook in the oven, and you don’t want mushy shells!
- Use Fresh Spinach: While you can use frozen spinach in a pinch, fresh spinach gives a much brighter flavor and better texture. If you do use frozen, make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a watery filling.
- Customize Your Cheeses: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the cheeses! For a sharper flavor, you can use feta instead of ricotta or add in some goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just keep the proportions in mind.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to fit your taste! If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne for a kick!
- Layer Your Sauce: When you’re assembling, be generous with the marinara sauce. It not only adds flavor but also keeps the shells moist while they bake. Plus, who doesn’t love extra sauce?
- Cover and Uncover: Cover the baking dish with foil for the first part of baking to keep the moisture in. But don’t forget to uncover it for the last few minutes to achieve that golden, bubbly cheese on top!
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the stuffed shells sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This gives them a chance to set up a bit and makes them easier to serve!
- Make Ahead for Convenience: If you’re planning a busy week, you can assemble the shells in advance and keep them in the fridge for a day or two before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re chilled!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a stunning dish of Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells that will impress everyone around the table. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Section
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! These Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells not only taste incredible, but they also bring some good stuff to the table. Here’s a rough breakdown of what you can expect per serving, but keep in mind that values might vary based on the specific ingredients you use and any substitutions you make.
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 15g
These shells are a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal while sneaking in some greens! Just remember, if you swap out any ingredients, the nutritional values may change a bit. So feel free to experiment, but keep an eye on those macros if you’re tracking them. Enjoy every cheesy, spinach-filled bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often get, along with my tried-and-true answers.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge. It’s such a lifesaver for busy nights!
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, no problem! You can use cottage cheese as a lighter alternative. Just blend it a bit to smooth it out. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a creamy cashew cheese or tofu blended with a bit of nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can definitely freeze these stuffed shells! Just make sure they’re fully cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
The best way to reheat your stuffed shells is to cover them with foil and bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. This helps retain moisture and keeps that cheesy goodness intact. If you’re in a rush, you can microwave them, but be sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out!
Can I make these Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Just opt for gluten-free jumbo pasta shells, which are widely available. The filling will still be just as delicious, and you won’t even miss the gluten!
What’s the best way to serve these shells?
These stuffed shells are lovely on their own, but I like to serve them with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle a little extra parmesan or fresh basil on top before serving for that restaurant-style flair!
Hope these FAQs help you on your journey to making the most delicious Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells ever! If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers! If you find yourself with any Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells after your meal (which is a bit of a miracle because they’re so good!), here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty.
First, let the shells cool completely before storing them. This helps prevent condensation inside your container, which can make them soggy. Once they’ve cooled, transfer the stuffed shells into an airtight container. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for extra protection. They’ll last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, or if you want to keep them longer, pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months!
When it’s time to enjoy those tasty shells again, I’ve got a couple of reheating tips for you. If you’re reheating from the fridge, just cover them with foil and pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re heated through. Covering them helps keep the moisture in, so the cheese stays nice and gooey!
If you’re pulling them out of the freezer, thaw them overnight in the fridge first, then follow the same reheating instructions. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them, but make sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Nobody wants dry stuffed shells!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells just as much the second time around. Happy eating!
Print
Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells: 7 Comforting Secrets Revealed
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious side dish of pasta shells filled with spinach and cheese.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for better flavor.
- Adjust spices according to your taste.
- Can substitute cheese with a dairy-free option for a vegan version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Spinach, Cheese, Stuffed Shells, Pasta, Side Dish