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Stuffed Shells Recipe Stuffed Shells Recipe

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Stuffed Shells Recipe

I whip up cheesy stuffed shells with ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach, smothered in marinara sauce. Baked to bubbly perfection, it's a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that's always a hit at dinner!

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Stuffed Shells are a comforting, cheesy delight perfect for any dinner table. Imagine jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, mixed with spinach and seasoned just right. Topped with marinara sauce and baked until bubbly, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises a satisfying meal.

Stuffed Shells Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 20 pieces jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, spinach, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture and place in a baking dish.
  5. Pour marinara sauce over the shells.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until bubbly.
  8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

What You Will Need

What you will need to make stuffed shells

  • Jumbo pasta shells: These large shells hold the filling perfectly, creating a delightful bite-sized package of cheesy goodness.
  • Ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy, smooth texture that forms the base of the filling, making each bite rich and satisfying.
  • Mozzarella cheese: Adds a gooey, melty element to the filling, ensuring a deliciously cheesy experience.
  • Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses, adding depth to the dish.
  • Frozen spinach: Brings a touch of earthiness and a pop of color, balancing the richness of the cheeses.
  • Marinara sauce: Coats the shells in a tangy, savory layer, enhancing the overall flavor and keeping the dish moist.
  • Garlic powder: Infuses the filling with a subtle, aromatic garlic flavor, elevating the taste profile.

Necessary Tools and Instruments

What tools/instruments will be needed to make stuffed shells recipe

  • Large pot: Needed to cook the pasta shells until al dente.
  • Mixing bowl: Combines cheeses, spinach, and seasonings for the filling.
  • Baking dish: Holds stuffed shells and marinara sauce for baking.
  • Aluminum foil: Covers the dish to prevent drying out during baking.
  • Spoon: Helps stuff the shells with the cheese mixture.

Stuffed Shells Recipe

A classic Italian dish with stuffed pasta shells filled with a delicious ricotta and spinach mixture, baked in marinara sauce.
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Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 50 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon

Ingredients:  

Main Ingredients

  • 20 pieces Jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups Ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Frozen spinach, thawed and drained
  • 2 cups Marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder

Instructions: 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture and place in a baking dish.
  • Pour marinara sauce over the shells.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until bubbly.
  • Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes:

Feel free to add some cooked ground beef or sausage to the cheese mixture for a meatier version.

Nutrition value:

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Keywords:

Keyword Pasta, Stuffed Shells
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Make Ahead and Freezing Tips

Make Ahead Instructions

  1. Prepare the stuffed shells as directed but don't bake.
  2. Arrange stuffed shells in a baking dish.
  3. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
  4. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Freezing Instructions

  1. Follow the make-ahead steps.
  2. Instead of refrigerating, place the covered dish in the freezer.
  3. Freeze for up to 3 months.
  4. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight.
  5. Bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if needed.

Using frozen spinach instead of fresh saves time and ensures a consistent texture in your stuffed shells.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ:
How do I prevent the shells from sticking together while cooking?
Stir them occasionally and add a bit of olive oil to the boiling water.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, just sauté it first to remove excess moisture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely, assemble the dish and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
What other cheeses can I use?
Try adding some provolone or fontina for extra flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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