Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Introduction

Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells bring together the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the earthy goodness of spinach, nestled inside perfectly cooked pasta shells. This dish is a versatile and comforting choice for gatherings or weeknight dinners, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. Whether you are a pasta lover or looking for a vegetarian option that doesn’t compromise on taste, these stuffed shells are sure to impress.

Flavorful Filling

The filling for Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells consists of creamy ricotta cheese blended with sautéed spinach, aromatic garlic, and a hint of nutmeg for depth of flavor. This combination creates a velvety smooth texture with a burst of freshness from the spinach, making each bite a delightful experience. The filling is generously stuffed into jumbo pasta shells, holding all the savory goodness in every mouthful.

Family-Friendly Meal

This dish is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both adults and children alike. With its appealing presentation and well-balanced flavors, Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells offer a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on taste. It can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy days when you want a homemade meal without the fuss. Whether served as a main course with a side salad or as part of a buffet-style gathering, these stuffed shells are a comforting and satisfying dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

What Tools You’ll Need

Basic Kitchen Tools

– Large pot
– Mixing bowls
– Baking dish
– Aluminum foil
– Wooden spoon
– Whisk
– Measuring cups and spoons

When preparing Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells, ensure you have these basic kitchen tools on hand to make the process smoother. A large pot will be essential for cooking the pasta shells. Mixing bowls will come in handy for combining the filling ingredients, while a baking dish is necessary for baking the stuffed shells. Use aluminum foil to cover the dish during baking and a wooden spoon for mixing. A whisk will help in combining the eggs for the filling, and measuring cups and spoons are vital for accurate ingredient proportions.

Specialized Tools

– Kitchen scissors
– Piping bag or ziplock bag
– Pastry brush
– Grater
– Colander

For more precise preparation of the dish, consider using specialized tools such as kitchen scissors to finely chop ingredients like spinach. A piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off is useful for filling the pasta shells neatly. A pastry brush will aid in brushing the shells with sauce before baking. A grater is handy for shredding cheese, and a colander is necessary for draining the cooked pasta shells. Having these tools ready will ensure a seamless cooking experience when making Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells.

Ingredients with Detailed Measurements

For the Stuffed Shells:

– 1 box jumbo pasta shells (about 12 oz)
– 15 oz ricotta cheese
– 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For Garnish:

– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Additional grated Parmesan cheese

To prepare Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells, you will need 1 box of jumbo pasta shells. The filling includes 15 oz of ricotta cheese, 10 oz of frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained), 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tsp each of dried oregano and dried basil, and salt and black pepper to taste. Additionally, you will require 2 cups of marinara sauce and 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese for layering. For garnish, have some fresh chopped basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese ready.

Instructions

To make Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells, follow these simple steps:

Preparation

– Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
– In a pan, sauté garlic and spinach until wilted, then mix with ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
– Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

Assembly and Baking

– Fill each cooked pasta shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture.
– Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, top with more marinara sauce, and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese.
– Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25 minutes.
– Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
– Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

These instructions will help you create a delicious and comforting Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells dish for your family and friends to enjoy.

Nutrition Score

The Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells dish boasts a balanced nutrition profile, offering a mix of essential nutrients. Let’s delve into the detailed nutrition breakdown to understand the health benefits it provides.

Key Nutrients in Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells

– The ricotta cheese in this dish serves as a rich source of protein and calcium, essential for muscle growth and bone health.

– Spinach, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, contributes to boosting your immune system and promoting healthy vision and skin.

– Pasta shells provide carbohydrates for energy, while the tomato sauce offers a dose of antioxidants from lycopene.

Nutritional Information per Serving

– Calories: A serving typically ranges from 300-400 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used.

– Protein: Expect around 15-20 grams of protein per serving, crucial for tissue repair and overall body functioning.

– Fiber: With spinach and whole grain pasta, each serving may contain 4-6 grams of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.

– Fat: The dish is moderately low in saturated fats, with the option to use part-skim ricotta for a healthier fat profile.

By incorporating Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells into your meal rotation, you can enjoy a tasty dish that offers a good balance of nutrients essential for your well-being.

Serving & Storage

Serving Suggestions

– Serve the Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells hot from the oven for optimal flavor.
– Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color.
– Accompany the dish with a side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
– Pair the stuffed shells with garlic bread or a warm baguette to complete the meal.

Storage Tips

– Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
– Alternatively, microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
– For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed shells for up to 2 months. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Variations

Cheese Varieties

– Instead of ricotta, experiment with different cheeses for the stuffing such as creamy goat cheese, tangy feta, or sharp cheddar. Each cheese will bring a unique flavor profile to the dish, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences.

Herb and Spice Infusions

– Elevate the flavors of the dish by adding a variety of herbs and spices to the filling. Mix in chopped fresh basil, parsley, or dill for a boost of freshness. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes or garlic powder to add a hint of spice to the stuffed shells.

By exploring various cheese options and enhancing the flavors with different herbs and spices, you can create a diverse array of Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells to suit different tastes and occasions. Whether you prefer a rich and creamy filling or a more zesty and aromatic one, these variations allow you to put your own twist on this classic dish.

FAQs with Most Commonly Asked Questions

How to Make Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells

– To make Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells, start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions.
– In a separate pan, sauté garlic and spinach until the spinach wilts. Then, mix the spinach with ricotta cheese, parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper.
– Fill each cooked shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture, place them in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and bake.
– Once baked, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and bake until the cheese melts. Serve hot and enjoy!

Can I Freeze Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells?

– Yes, you can freeze Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells before baking them. Prepare the stuffed shells, place them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze.
– When ready to eat, thaw the shells in the refrigerator overnight, bake as per the recipe instructions, and enjoy a delicious meal.

How Long Do I Bake Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells?

– Bake Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes. Once the shells are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly, they are ready to be served.

Can I Substitute Spinach in Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells?

– If you’re not a fan of spinach, you can substitute it with other greens like kale or Swiss chard. Simply cook the greens as per the recipe and proceed with making the stuffed shells as usual.

Conclusion

Delicious Crowd-Pleaser

• The Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells dish offers a delectable combination of flavors and textures that is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
• The creamy ricotta filling paired with the savory spinach and gooey melted cheese creates a harmonious symphony of taste that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• The simplicity of the recipe belies the rich and indulgent experience it provides, making it a go-to dish for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special occasions.

Versatile and Customizable

• One of the standout features of Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells is the versatility it offers in terms of customization.
• Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, cheeses, or even protein additions like ground beef or turkey to tailor the dish to your preferences.
• Whether you’re catering to vegetarians, meat-lovers, or those with specific dietary restrictions, this dish can easily adapt to suit various needs while still delivering a burst of flavors in every bite.

In conclusion, Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells is a winning recipe that beautifully combines ease of preparation with a satisfying and mouthwatering dining experience. Its adaptability and wide appeal make it a staple in many households, promising culinary delight with every serving.

Leave a Comment