Creamy Spinach And Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Name: Creamy Spinach And Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, for topping; Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

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I absolutely adore these Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells! They are not only packed with flavor, but the satisfying, creamy texture makes them so comforting. Every time I make this dish, the spinach and ricotta filling turns into an irresistible combination that delights everyone at the table. Topped with a rich marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella, they make for a delightful meal. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze without sacrificing taste.

Created by

Seraphina Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:29:36.031Z

When I first tasted these Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, I knew I had found my new favorite comfort dish. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy ricotta creates a filling that's both rich and satisfying. After experimenting with different herbs and spices, I found that a hint of nutmeg elevates the flavors beautifully, adding warmth and depth that surprise and delight.

One tip I always share is to use freshly grated cheese for topping. Not only does it melt better, but it also enhances the overall taste of the dish. Each shell is bursting with flavor, and the visual appeal with layers of red sauce and melted cheese is simply irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously creamy filling that balances perfectly with the rich marinara sauce
Versatile dish that's great for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
Packed with nutrients from fresh spinach without compromising on flavor

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for these stuffed shells is truly the star of the dish. Using fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but also enhances the dish's nutritional profile. Be sure to chop the spinach finely, as this ensures it blends seamlessly with the creamy ricotta. If you prefer a different green, Swiss chard or kale can be delicious substitutes; just remember to sauté them first to soften their texture.

Incorporating the egg into the filling is essential as it acts as a binder, helping the mixture hold together when stuffed into the shells. If you’re looking for an egg-free option, a tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with three tablespoons of water can work well as a substitute, giving a similar binding effect.

Assembly Tips

When stuffing the shells, use a small spoon or a piping bag to make the process easier and mess-free. Fill each shell generously, but don’t overstuff, as this can cause them to burst during baking. After filling, place the shells seam-side up in your baking dish to keep them intact and encourage even cooking.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs like oregano or thyme to the ricotta mixture. They complement the marinara sauce beautifully and add depth to the dish. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can bring a delightful kick.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started!

For the Stuffed Shells

12 jumbo pasta shells
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Marinara Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, for topping
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to assemble!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your stuffed shells.

Cook the Shells

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully spoon the ricotta filling into each cooked shell and place them in a baking dish.

Add the Sauce

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated. Top with extra mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the stuffed shells sit for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mixing in some sautéed mushrooms with the filling.

Make-Ahead Options

These stuffed shells can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the assembled dish with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. On cooking day, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

If you want to make a larger batch, these shells freeze beautifully. Assemble the stuffed shells, placing them in a freezer-safe dish, and cover tightly. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as instructed.

Serving Suggestions

For a flavorful side, serve these creamy stuffed shells with a simple side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing cuts through the creaminess of the dish, providing a perfect balance. Garlic bread can also be a great companion, allowing you to soak up any remaining marinara sauce.

If you want to add a twist, consider topping the stuffed shells with a sprinkle of crushed chips or breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan before baking. This adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling, elevating the whole dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the filling in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to fill the shells.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Assemble the shells and freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time when cooking from frozen.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add cooked mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

→ Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative if you want a dairy-free version.