Oh, let me tell you about these Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells! They’re like little pockets of joy bursting with flavor. Honestly, every time I make them, my kitchen fills with this heavenly aroma that just makes my heart sing. I remember the first time I served them at a family gathering; everyone was raving about how delicious they were! They’re not just a side dish; they’re a star on the table, complementing anything from a simple salad to a hearty main course. Trust me, once you taste these, you’ll be hooked! It’s comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients for Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells

Let’s gather everything we need for these delightful Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells! Here’s what you’ll need:

20 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 cups marinara sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan for that perfect texture and flavor. It’s all about those little details that make this dish truly shine!

How to Prepare Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells! Don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds, and I promise you’re going to love every step of the way!

Preheat and Cook Pasta Shells

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is key because we want those shells perfectly cooked and ready to be stuffed! While that’s heating up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente—don’t overcook them, or they’ll fall apart when you stuff them. Once they’re done, drain the shells and set them aside to cool a bit. You want them just warm enough to handle but not too hot to burn your fingers!

Prepare the Cheese and Spinach Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the egg. I always like to use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix everything together. Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens! Mix it all until it’s creamy and well combined. You’ll want to taste it (just a little!) to make sure it’s seasoned just right. Yum!

Stuff the Shells

Now comes the fun part—stuffing those shells! Grab a spoon and take a generous amount of that delicious cheese and spinach filling, then carefully fill each pasta shell. Don’t be shy with the filling; you want them to be packed full of that cheesy goodness! Place the filled shells seam side up on a plate or baking sheet as you go. It’s okay if a little spills out; that just means more flavor!

Assemble and Bake

Alright, let’s put it all together! Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish—this keeps the shells from sticking and adds extra flavor. Then, gently place those stuffed shells in the dish, making sure they’re snug but not overcrowded. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, covering them completely. Cover the baking dish with foil to keep everything nice and moist while it bakes. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Oh wow, the smell will be heavenly!

Tips for Success with Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells

Alright, let’s make sure your Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips that I swear by:

Cheese Choices: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! If you’re not a fan of ricotta, try using cottage cheese for a lighter option, or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just think about what flavors you love!
Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can take these shells to the next level. I love adding fresh basil for that vibrant flavor—just chop it up and mix it in with the filling!
Make Ahead: Want to save time? You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just cover them tightly with foil to keep them fresh!
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember to cook the pasta shells al dente! This will help them hold their shape when you stuff them and during baking. Trust me, no one wants mushy shells!
Extra Sauce: If you love saucy dishes, feel free to use more marinara sauce. You can even serve some on the side for dipping—yum!
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on those shells towards the end of baking. You want them bubbly and golden, but not burnt. If the cheese is melting beautifully, you’re on the right track!

With these tips, you’re going to impress everyone at the dinner table! Enjoy the journey and happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells

Now that you’ve made these delicious Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them to create a truly scrumptious meal! Trust me, these pairings will elevate your dinner experience!

Simple Side Salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is perfect for balancing the richness of the shells. It adds a refreshing crunch!
Garlic Bread: Who can say no to warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s a classic side that complements the flavors beautifully and is great for scooping up that extra marinara sauce!
Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus with olive oil and herbs, then roast them until tender. They add color and nutrition to your plate!
Italian Sausage: If you’re looking to add protein, consider serving some sautéed Italian sausage on the side. The savory flavors work wonderfully with the cheesy shells!
Steamed Broccoli: For a healthy touch, steamed broccoli with a sprinkle of lemon juice and a dash of salt is a fantastic option. It’s vibrant, nutritious, and pairs perfectly!
Wine Pairing: If you enjoy a glass of wine, a light Pinot Grigio or a medium-bodied Chianti would pair beautifully with the flavors of the stuffed shells. Cheers to that!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and the smiles around your table!

Nutritional Information for Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells

Now, let’s talk about what’s inside these delightful Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells! It’s always nice to know what you’re fueling your body with, right? Here’s a typical nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 320
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 500mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Sugar: 6g

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It’s always a good idea to adjust according to your dietary needs and preferences! Enjoy these delicious stuffed shells guilt-free, knowing they’re packed with flavor and nutrition!

FAQ about Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells

I know you’ll have some questions about these delicious Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells, so let’s tackle a few of the most common ones! I want to make sure you feel totally prepared as you dive into this recipe.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator, covered tightly with foil, for up to a day before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

What substitutions can I make for the cheese?

If you’re looking to switch things up, you can try cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter option, or even goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Just make sure whatever you choose melts well!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready for round two! Yum!

Can I freeze these stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just assemble the shells, but don’t bake them. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking!

What else can I add to the filling?

Feel free to get creative! Chopped sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or even sautéed mushrooms would be fantastic additions. Just remember to adjust the seasonings accordingly!

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells. They’re widely available now, and you won’t lose any of that delicious flavor!

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

If you like a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese filling or even some diced jalapeños. Spice it up to match your taste buds!

I hope these answers help you on your culinary adventure with Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells! If you have more questions, feel free to ask as you cook. Happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Flavor-Packed: The combination of creamy cheeses and fresh spinach creates a rich and satisfying flavor that everyone will adore!
Vegetarian-Friendly: These stuffed shells are a hearty, meat-free option that even non-vegetarians will love!
Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste—add your favorite herbs or swap the cheeses!
Make Ahead: They’re great for prepping in advance, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, these shells are sure to impress and satisfy your guests!
Comfort Food: They embody that warm, cozy feeling we all crave—a true comfort food classic!

Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Spinach and cheese stuffed shells are a delicious side dish packed with flavor.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, mix spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Fill each pasta shell with the cheese and spinach mixture.
Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Notes

Feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.
Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Adjust cheese types to your preference.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Shells, stuffed pasta, vegetarian side dish

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