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Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells

by
S
Sophie

A delightful dish of pasta shells stuffed with a creamy spinach and ricotta filling, perfect for any occasion.

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Preparation time (min) 30 min
Cooking time (min) 30 min
Difficulty
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells

Ingredients

6 servings
|
  • 20
    Pasta shell jumbo or Manicotti
  • 200 g
    Spinach fresh or Kale
  • 250 g
    Ricotta cheese part-skim or Cottage cheese
  • 50 g
    Parmesan cheese grated or Pecorino
  • 1
    Onion medium or Shallot
  • 1/4 tsp
    Nutmeg ground or Cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp
    Salt or Sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp
    Black pepper freshly ground or White pepper
  • 500 ml
    Marinara sauce homemade or Store-bought

Instructions

1

Prepare the pasta shells

Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Don't overcook the pasta shells; they should be firm enough to hold the filling without tearing.

Ingredients needed for this step

pasta shell
2

Sauté the onion

In a sauté pan, cook the chopped onion over medium heat until softened and translucent.

Stir frequently to prevent the onion from burning and to ensure even cooking.

Ingredients needed for this step

onion
3

Prepare the filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, cooked onion, chopped spinach, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary before stuffing the shells.

Ingredients needed for this step

ricotta cheese parmesan cheese onion spinach nutmeg salt black pepper
4

Stuff the pasta shells

Fill each pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the ricotta mixture.

Use a small spoon or piping bag for easier filling of the shells.

Ingredients needed for this step

pasta shell ricotta cheese
5

Assemble the dish

Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top, then cover with the remaining sauce.

Ensure the shells are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking.

Ingredients needed for this step

marinara sauce pasta shell
6

Bake the shells

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the shells are heated through.

Cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes to prevent the shells from drying out.

Ingredients needed for this step

marinara sauce
7

Serve and enjoy

Serve the stuffed shells hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pair with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients needed for this step

parmesan cheese

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 250 kcal
Fat 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates 30 g
Fiber 4 g
Sugar 4 g
Protein 14 g

Learn More About This Recipe

📝

About this Recipe

Discover the perfect recipe for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells. This dish combines creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and a hint of nutmeg, all baked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is both comforting and elegant.
💪

Why This Recipe Is Good For You

This recipe is a great source of protein and calcium from the ricotta and Parmesan cheese, while the spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals. It's a wholesome and satisfying meal for the entire family.
💡

Tips & Tricks

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. Also, ensure the pasta shells are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
🔄

Recipe Variations

You can substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lighter option. Additionally, try adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for a unique twist.
🗄️

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option.
📚

Recipe History

Stuffed pasta dishes have been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, showcasing the versatility of pasta and the creativity of Italian cooking.
🥗

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this dish is rich in protein and provides a good amount of dietary fiber, making it a balanced meal option.
🍽️

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tags

comfort food vegetarian pasta baked cheesy

Recipe Categories

Cuisine

italian

Meal Type

dinner lunch brunch

Course

main course side dish

Cooking Methods

baking sautéing boiling

Occasions

family gathering weeknight dinner thanksgiving potluck

Dietary Restrictions

vegetarian low-sugar halal

Allergens

milk gluten

Seasons

fall winter all-season

Difficulty

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