Stuffed pasta shells with spinach and ricotta offer a delightful combination of creamy, savory filling wrapped in tender pasta. This classic dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re preparing a comforting family dinner or hosting guests. The rich ricotta cheese blends beautifully with fresh spinach, creating a deliciously creamy filling complemented by a flavorful marinara sauce. With its satisfying texture and mouthwatering taste, stuffed pasta shells are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients:
- 20 large pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Boil pasta shells until al dente, drain.
- Mix ricotta, spinach, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture.
- Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish, place shells on top.
- Cover with mozzarella, bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until bubbly.
Variations and Tips
- Meat Option: For those who want a bit of meat in their dish, you can easily add cooked ground beef or sausage to the spinach and ricotta filling. It’ll add extra flavor and protein.
- Vegan Version: For a dairy-free version, swap the ricotta for tofu or a dairy-free ricotta alternative, and use vegan mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce for an added kick.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme to the filling for a more aromatic flavor profile.
- Freezing: These stuffed pasta shells freeze beautifully. Simply prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
Why You’ll Love Stuffed Pasta Shells with Spinach and Ricotta
Stuffed pasta shells with spinach and ricotta are the ultimate comfort food. The creamy, cheesy filling pairs perfectly with the hearty pasta and flavorful marinara sauce. It’s a dish that combines simplicity with elegance and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or enjoying it on your own, this recipe is bound to become a beloved meal in your kitchen.
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences, from adding different cheeses or vegetables to making it spicier. Best of all, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone around the table, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy every bite of this comforting Italian-inspired meal!
Check All the other recipes on acewebinc.com
And join our Facebook group kitchen recipes