Name: Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 3 cups marinara sauce; 1 pound chicken strips or turkey bacon (optional)

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A Wholesome Italian Delight

Warm, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, these Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are the perfect comfort food for any occasion. The smooth ricotta and fresh spinach filling is enveloped in tender pasta shells, topped with a rich marinara sauce, and baked to perfection. This easy-to-follow recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, these stuffed shells will be a hit. Plus, with substitutions for any meat lovers, everyone can enjoy this delightful dish!

⏱️ Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients List

12 large pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
3 cups marinara sauce
1 pound chicken strips or turkey bacon (optional, for added flavor)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

Large skillet or frying pan
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups & spoons
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon or spatula
Baking dish

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
In a bowl, combine cooked spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta-spinach mixture.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish.
Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella on top.
If using chicken strips, place them on top of the shells for added flavor.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy! 😋🍝✨

💡 Pro Tips Section

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Substitutions: Feel free to swap spinach for kale or add other veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.
Meal Prep: You can assemble the shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
Serving Ideas: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

📊 Nutrition Table

| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|————–|———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——-|
| 1 plate | 420 | 18g | 35g | 22g | 4g | 6g |

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

FAQs

1. Can I make these shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the shells in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled.

2. Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just cover them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

3. What other cheeses can I use?
You can substitute or add different cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or even cheddar for a unique flavor.

4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta shells and check your marinara sauce labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.