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Ingredients for Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious meal:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for sautéing spinach
- Mixing bowl for cheese filling
- Baking dish (9×13 inches works great)
- Aluminum foil for covering the dish while baking
- Large spoon or piping bag for filling the shells
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want the shells to be al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven later. Drain and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Sauté the Spinach
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and egg. Stir in the sautéed spinach and add the dried basil and oregano. Mix everything together until well combined. Taste the mixture and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
4. Fill the Pasta Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of marinara sauce over the bottom of your baking dish. Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully stuff each pasta shell with the cheesy spinach mixture and arrange them in the dish. Top the shells with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle additional mozzarella and parmesan over the top.
5. Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
6. Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm. Pair this dish with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal!
Recipe Tips and Variations
1. Add More Vegetables: If you want to boost the vegetable content, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or roasted red peppers to the cheese filling.
2. Swap the Spinach: If spinach isn’t your favorite, try using kale or Swiss chard. Both offer a similar texture and nutritional benefits but with a slightly different flavor.
3. Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta shells to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
4. Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or even shredded chicken to the cheese mixture.
5. Use Homemade Marinara: While store-bought marinara is convenient, a homemade sauce can elevate the flavor. A simple marinara made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs can add a fresh, vibrant element to the dish.
Storing Leftovers
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells store beautifully! Here’s how you can keep any leftovers:
- In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
- In the freezer: This dish freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Place the shells in a freezer-safe container before baking, and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, bake from frozen at 375°F, adding an additional 20-30 minutes to the cooking time.
Food and Drink Pairings
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are rich and savory, so pairing them with a light, crisp salad balances the meal. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette is a great choice. For bread lovers, garlic bread or crusty Italian bread makes for the perfect side to soak up any leftover sauce.
In terms of drinks, a glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese, pairs wonderfully with the cheesy, tomato-based flavors of the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon or a citrusy iced tea complements the meal nicely.
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