While the shells are cooling, wash and chop the fresh spinach. If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thoroughly drained of excess moisture.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried herbs, and spinach. Mix everything together until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The filling should be thick but spreadable.
Stuff the Shells:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully spoon the ricotta-spinach filling into each shell. Pack the filling gently but generously.
Assemble the Dish:
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, filling-side up. Once the shells are arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce and stuffed shells.
Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For an extra golden top, uncover the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Serve the ricotta and spinach stuffed shells hot and enjoy!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Tip: Serve the stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for an added touch of flavor.
Storing: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The stuffed shells can also be stored in the baking dish covered with foil.
Freezing Tip: These stuffed shells freeze beautifully! After assembling the shells in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes of cooking time.
Variants:
Meat Lovers’ Version: Add cooked ground beef, chicken, or sausage to the ricotta filling for a heartier meal. You can mix the meat directly into the ricotta and spinach mixture for a flavorful twist.
Vegan Option: Replace the ricotta cheese with a vegan ricotta alternative (such as cashew ricotta) and use dairy-free mozzarella. Make sure the pasta shells are also vegan-friendly.
Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Add a mix of cheeses like provolone or gouda to the ricotta filling for a cheesier version. A combination of cheeses adds depth of flavor.
Herb Variations: For extra flavor, experiment with adding fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme to the filling.
FAQ:
1. Can I use no-boil pasta shells? Yes, you can use no-boil pasta shells in this recipe. Simply layer them with sauce and filling, and bake according to the instructions, making sure they have enough time to absorb the sauce and cook fully.
2. How do I prevent the shells from sticking together? After draining the shells, spread them out on a plate or tray in a single layer. If you’re preparing them ahead of time, lightly drizzle them with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can stuff the shells and assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven as instructed.
4. How can I make this dish spicier? To add a little heat to your stuffed shells, incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes into the filling or top the dish with a spicy marinara sauce.
5. Can I make this dish without spinach? Yes! If you’re not a fan of spinach, you can substitute it with other greens like kale or arugula, or even try adding sautéed mushrooms for a different texture and flavor.
Conclusion:
Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love. From their creamy, cheesy filling to the flavorful marinara sauce, these shells are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy them as a vegetarian dish or want to add your own twist with meat or extra spices, the possibilities are endless. So, why not indulge in this rich and satisfying dish? It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion!
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