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Creamy Spinach Ricotta Shells

This creamy spinach ricotta shells recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining ricotta, spinach, and pasta shells with a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 780 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Casserole dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon for stuffing

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups marinara sauce preferably homemade or high-quality store-bought
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced

For the Filling

  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese (425 g)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100 g), plus more for topping
  • 1 egg beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Other Ingredients

  • 12 jumbo pasta shells
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Boil a large pot of salted water and add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

  • In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Make the Filling

  • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until fully combined.
  • Tip: Taste the filling before stuffing the shells; adjust seasoning if needed for a more flavorful bite.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon a layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of a casserole dish. Fill each shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture and place them in the dish.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

  • Top the filled shells with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

Pro tips:
- Choose ripened ricotta for a creamier texture.
- For added depth, mix in a pinch of nutmeg to the filling.
- Prepare the filling a day ahead to allow flavors to develop.
- Garnish with fresh basil just before serving for a pop of color and flavor.