Introduction
Are you craving a delicious and comforting meal that’s easy to make? Look no further than this creamy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe. These stuffed pasta shells are filled with a rich and creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and spinach, making them a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating this delectable dish step by step, sharing valuable cooking hacks and tips along the way.
Prepping the Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather and prepare all the necessary ingredients for this easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe. You’ll need jumbo pasta shells, fresh spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, mozzarella cheese, garlic, eggs, and your favorite marinara sauce. Make sure to chop the spinach finely and mince the garlic to ensure even distribution of flavors in the dish.
One helpful tip is to slightly undercook the jumbo pasta shells before filling them. This will prevent them from becoming mushy during the baking process and ensure the perfect texture in every bite. Additionally, preheating your oven to the correct temperature will help the stuffed shells cook evenly and come out golden and bubbly.
For a time-saving hack, you can prepare the filling mixture in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the stuffed shells. This not only streamlines the cooking process but also allows the flavors to meld together for an even more delicious outcome.
Lastly, don’t forget to generously season the ricotta and spinach mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the overall taste profile of the dish. These simple seasoning additions can elevate the flavors and make your stuffed shells truly irresistible.
Assembling and Baking
Once all the ingredients are prepped and ready, it’s time to assemble the creamy stuffed pasta shells with ricotta and spinach. Start by filling each jumbo pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the ricotta and spinach mixture, ensuring they are packed full but not overflowing. Placing the shells in a single layer in the baking dish will help them cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the marinara sauce.
For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the stuffed shells before baking. The melted cheese on top creates a golden crust that adds a delightful crunch to each bite. Covering the baking dish with foil during the initial baking period will help the shells cook through without drying out, while removing the foil towards the end will allow the cheese to bubble and brown.
Keep an eye on the stuffed shells as they bake to ensure they reach the perfect level of doneness. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is simmering, your creamy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are ready to be served hot out of the oven. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness before digging in.
With the irresistible aroma filling your kitchen, these creamy stuffed pasta shells with ricotta and spinach are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any mealtime. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this easy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Creamy Spinach And Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Indulge in these delicious and comforting jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich and creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt
- Pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg
Directions
- Preheat the oven to the correct temperature.
- Slightly undercook the jumbo pasta shells.
- Prepare the filling mixture by mixing ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, eggs, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Fill each pasta shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture.
- Layer the filled shells in a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove foil towards the end to allow the cheese to brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
