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: 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 12 jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, for topping; Fresh basil, for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, especially when I'm craving a comforting and satisfying meal. The combination of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and tender pasta shells creates a dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests. The best part is that it can be prepared in under an hour, making it a go-to in my kitchen for when I want to impress without spending all day cooking.

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:03:35.771Z

When I first attempted to make stuffed shells, I was hesitant. I combined spinach and ricotta in a way that would bring out the best flavors while keeping the dish light. Using fresh herbs elevated the taste and made my family ask for seconds! I learned that pre-blanching the spinach releases some moisture, making the final filling extra creamy.

This dish has become a staple in our household, and I love experimenting with different cheeses for an extra burst of flavor. Each bite of these stuffed shells is a delightful experience, and I promise they will vanish from the table in no time!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy filling with a burst of spinach flavor
Comforting and satisfying pasta dish for any occasion
Easily customizable with your favorite cheeses or herbs

Ingredient Insights

The choice of cheese in the filling is paramount for achieving that desired creaminess and flavor balance. Ricotta provides a rich base that pairs beautifully with spinach, while mozzarella adds stretch and a gooey texture when melted. For a twist, try substituting part of the ricotta with goat cheese for a tangy kick, or swap in a dairy-free option if you're accommodating dietary restrictions.

Fresh spinach not only lends a vibrant color but also packs this dish with nutrients. Sautéing the spinach lightly before mixing it into the filling can enhance its flavor and reduce moisture, preventing a watery filling. If you're short on time, frozen spinach works well too—just be sure to thoroughly drain it after thawing to avoid excess liquid.

Stuffing Techniques

When filling the pasta shells, use a small spoon or a piping bag for cleaner and more efficient stuffing. If you're using a piping bag, cut a diagonal opening to create a wider mouth for easy filling. Stuff each shell generously, but avoid overfilling to prevent spillage during baking. The goal is to have each shell bursting with flavor without losing its shape.

After arranging the stuffed shells in the baking dish, ensure they are spaced out adequately to allow the sauce to permeate and the cheese to melt evenly. This helps achieve that irresistible bubbly top you want to see once it comes out of the oven. If you notice any shells popping open, gently press them back together, ensuring the openings are facing up.

Ingredients

For the Filling

15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the Shells

12 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, for topping
Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until well blended.

Stuff the Shells

Fill each cooked shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in a baking dish.

Add the Sauce

Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake

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

Garnish and Serve

Allow the shells to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or a splash of lemon juice to the filling mixture.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This will not only save you time on busy weeknights but allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste when baked.

If you're planning to freeze the stuffed shells, lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. To bake from frozen, simply increase the baking time by about 15-20 minutes; it’s a great way to have a comforting meal ready at a moment's notice.

Serving Suggestions

These creamy stuffed shells are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the dish by serving them with a light arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens complements the richness of the pasta beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal.

For an herbaceous twist, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or oregano over the top just before serving. Not only will this enhance the visual appeal, but it will also add a pop of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling and marinara sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain the excess water before adding it to the filling.

→ What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute with cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a different flavor.

→ Can these be prepared ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and bake them just before serving.

→ What sides go well with stuffed shells?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with these creamy stuffed shells.