Spinach Stuffed Shells Clara quick dinners

Spinach Stuffed Shells are a comforting, oven-baked pasta dish filled with a creamy blend of cheeses and tender spinach, all nestled in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a meatless meal, this hearty classic is a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and ideal for both weeknights and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Satisfying: The creamy cheese filling and tangy marinara sauce are a perfect match.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A great meatless main dish packed with flavor and nutrition.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready—great for busy nights.
• Freezer-Friendly: Store for later to enjoy a homemade meal any time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Egg
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Marinara sauce
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Spinach: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool. If using frozen spinach, skip sautéing and just squeeze out excess moisture.
4. Make Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooled spinach, ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
5. Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stuff each shell with the spinach-cheese mixture and place it in the dish.
6. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Spoon remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
8. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 46
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir cooked, crumbled sausage or ground turkey into the filling.
• Herb-Rich: Add more fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for added depth.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the filling or sauce.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based ricotta and shredded cheeses along with egg replacer.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the dish without baking and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, covered, adding extra time as needed.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing into the filling.

How do I prevent the shells from tearing?

Cook until just al dente and handle gently. Stir pasta occasionally during boiling to prevent sticking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What kind of ricotta should I use?

Whole milk ricotta is best for flavor and texture, but part-skim also works well.

Is it okay to skip the egg in the filling?

Yes, though the egg helps bind the filling. You can use an egg replacer or just omit it for a slightly softer texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers can be sautéed and mixed into the filling.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free jumbo shells, available in many specialty or health food stores.

What’s the best way to stuff the shells?

Use a small spoon or a piping bag without a tip for easy and clean stuffing.

Can I use a different sauce?

Yes, Alfredo or pesto sauce can be substituted for marinara for a unique twist.

Do these freeze well?

Yes, they freeze beautifully. Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Spinach Stuffed Shells are a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for any night of the week. With their creamy, cheesy filling and rich tomato sauce, they offer a delicious vegetarian option that’s easy to make, freeze, and share. Serve them with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a full Italian-inspired meal.

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