If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, look no further than ricotta and spinach stuffed jumbo pasta shells. This classic Italian-inspired recipe combines creamy ricotta cheese with nutrient-rich spinach, all lovingly encased in tender pasta shells and baked to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of what you’ll need and how to bring this delectable meal to life.
Ingredients You Will Need for Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. The star of the show is the jumbo pasta shells, which you can find in the pasta aisle of most grocery stores. These large shells are perfect for stuffing and hold the filling beautifully. You’ll also need ricotta cheese, which provides a creamy, rich base for the filling. Fresh or frozen spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients to the dish, while grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses contribute additional layers of flavor and texture.
In addition to these main ingredients, you’ll need a few pantry staples to complete the dish. Garlic and onion are essential for adding depth and aroma to the filling, while eggs help bind everything together. Salt, pepper, and nutmeg are used to season the filling, enhancing the natural flavors of the cheese and spinach. Finally, a good-quality marinara sauce is crucial for coating the shells and adding a tangy, savory element to the dish.
For a complete list of ingredients, you’ll need:
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Ricotta cheese
- Fresh or frozen spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Garlic
- Onion
- Eggs
- Salt, pepper, and nutmeg
- Marinara sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Filling
Begin by preparing the spinach. If you’re using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly and saute it in a pan with a little olive oil until wilted. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove any excess moisture. Once the spinach is ready, chop it finely and set it aside to cool.
Next, prepare the ricotta mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella. Finely chop a small onion and mince a few cloves of garlic, then saute them in a pan until they become translucent and fragrant. Add the sauteed onion and garlic to the cheese mixture, along with the chopped spinach. Crack in an egg, and season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir everything together until well combined.
Now it’s time to stuff the shells. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, making sure to undercook them slightly so they hold their shape during baking. Drain the shells and allow them to cool slightly. Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture, being careful not to overfill them. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
Baking and Serving Your Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the baking dish. Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish to create a flavorful base for the shells. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, making sure they are evenly spaced and not overcrowded. Once all the shells are in place, spoon additional marinara sauce over the top, ensuring each shell is well-coated.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the shells from drying out during baking. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the shells are heated through.
Once the shells are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve the stuffed shells with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of the ricotta and spinach filling, perfectly complemented by the tangy marinara sauce and tender pasta shells. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household!
