Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells

Name: Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 cups marinara sauce; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering. The combination of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and rich marinara sauce creates a delightful dish that never fails to impress. Each cheesy shell is a bite of heaven, filled with vibrant flavors that melt together beautifully. This recipe is not only indulgent but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:33:27.602Z

When I first attempted making Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a gourmet meal at home. I sautéed the spinach until it was just wilted, which really brings out its flavor without losing its vibrant color. In the filling, I combined ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses with a hint of nutmeg, which I find adds warmth and depth to the overall taste.

As I started layering my shells with marinara sauce, I realized that the key to achieving that perfect texture is to bake them covered for most of the time. This helps the cheese melt beautifully and keeps the shells moist. Trust me, letting it rest for a few minutes after baking makes serving so much easier!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, cheesy filling that warms your heart
Fresh spinach offers a vibrant touch and nutritional goodness
Perfect for meal prep or entertaining family and friends

Mastering the Filling

Creating the perfect filling for your Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells is essential for achieving that creamy texture and flavorful punch. When sautéing the spinach, cook it just until it’s wilted and vibrant green; this ensures it releases its moisture and blends beautifully with the cheeses. Overcooking can lead to a mushy filling, so keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s done.

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan in your filling plays a crucial role in flavor and texture. Ricotta provides creaminess, while mozzarella gives that delightful stretch and gooeyness, and Parmesan adds a savory depth. You can experiment with this blend by adding herbs like oregano or a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor. Don’t hesitate to mix in cooked mushrooms or artichokes for an added twist!

Assembling the Dish

When assembling your Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells, make sure each shell is generously filled, but not overstuffed to the point of breaking. A heaping tablespoon of filling per shell is usually a safe amount. This way, you can maintain the integrity of the shells while ensuring every bite is filled with delicious flavor.

Layering the marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish not only prevents sticking but also adds moisture during baking. I suggest using a homemade sauce if you have the time, as it allows for more customization in flavor. If using store-bought, look for one that is low in sugar and sodium for a healthier option. The final bake will make the flavors meld together beautifully, so don't skip this step!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells

12 large pasta shells
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 cups marinara sauce
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Filling

In a large skillet, sauté the chopped spinach over medium heat until wilted. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well until creamy.

Stuff the Shells

Fill each pasta shell with the spinach and cheese mixture, using a spoon or your hands to pack it in generously.

Assemble the Dish

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.

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 rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for a delightful touch.

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, try blending in some cream cheese to the ricotta mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese according to your taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the assembled uncooked shells; simply cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, checking for bubbly edges as an indicator of doneness.

Serving Suggestions

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells are rich on their own, but they pair beautifully with a light side salad, some garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. Consider serving them with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a kick. A refreshing lemon vinaigrette on your salad can cut through the richness of the dish perfectly.

For a special occasion, you might also want to serve these shells with a glass of Chianti or a crisp Italian white wine. The acidity in the wine complements the richness of the cheese while enhancing the flavors of the marinara sauce. This transforms a simple dinner into an elegant dining experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the filling.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

The recipe is already vegetarian. Ensure that your marinara sauce is meat-free for a completely vegetarian dish.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time when ready to serve.

→ What side dishes pair well with stuffed shells?

A simple side salad or garlic bread complements stuffed shells perfectly. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.