Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Tomato Sauce is the epitome of comfort food. It combines tender pasta shells filled with a creamy, cheesy spinach mixture, nestled in a rich, tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a weeknight treat, this dish is easy to prepare yet feels elegant and indulgent. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

This classic Italian-inspired recipe has stood the test of time because it is versatile, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s a great way to sneak some greens into your meal and is easily adaptable for vegetarians. From its inviting aroma to its vibrant presentation, stuffed shells offer the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Tomato Sauce

• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
• Brown Onion: 1 medium (150g), finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Dried Oregano: 1 tablespoon
• Balsamic Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
• Tomato Puree (Paste): 1 tablespoon
• Sea Salt: ¼ teaspoon
• Cracked Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: 2 cans (14.5 oz each / 400g each)

For the Stuffed Shells

• Large Pasta Shells: 21
• Olive Oil: ½ tablespoon
• Spinach: 6 ½ packed cups (200g)
• Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup (250g tub)
• Mozzarella Cheese: ⅔ cup, grated (140g ball)
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced
• Basil Leaves: A small handful, finely chopped + more for garnish
• Vegetarian Parmesan-Style Cheese: ¼ cup (50g), finely grated + more for serving
• Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon, grated
• Sea Salt: ¼ teaspoon
• Cracked Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 4
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 480 kcal

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This recipe is a timeless classic because of its rich history and adaptability. Stuffed shells have long been a family favorite, offering the comfort of homemade pasta paired with the freshness of vegetables and the creaminess of cheese. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive occasion.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells showcase simple ingredients turned into something extraordinary. They’re a wonderful example of how Italian cuisine emphasizes the importance of fresh, quality ingredients and the magic of combining them in just the right way. Additionally, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly and easily customizable to suit various dietary needs, making it a favorite across generations.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped brown onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, followed by the balsamic vinegar and tomato puree. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, then season with sea salt and cracked black pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and aromatic.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente, as per the package instructions (typically 9-11 minutes).
2. Drain the shells, drizzle them with ½ tablespoon of olive oil, and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove the spinach from the skillet, let it cool slightly, and then squeeze out any excess moisture. Chop it finely.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated mozzarella, minced garlic, chopped basil, grated parmesan, nutmeg, sea salt, and cracked black pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Fold the chopped spinach into the cheese mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Spread half of the prepared tomato sauce evenly across the bottom of a large baking dish.
3. Stuff each pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the spinach and ricotta mixture, then arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
4. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the shells, ensuring they are well-covered.
5. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top for a golden, cheesy finish.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and additional grated parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 720 mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the filling.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or mascarpone can be used as alternatives. Blend cottage cheese for a smoother texture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the pasta shells with gluten-free large shells if available, or use zucchini slices as an alternative.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 15 minutes to the cooking time.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the shells until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
2. Season Generously: Ensure each component—sauce, filling, and pasta—is well-seasoned for maximum flavor.
3. Add More Veggies: Mix in finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition.
4. Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil leaves elevate the dish with their aromatic flavor.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
2. Freezing: Freeze the assembled but unbaked dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Conclusion

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Tomato Sauce is a dish that resonates with warmth, tradition, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Its combination of creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and tangy tomato sauce creates a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. The gooey melted cheese on top is the cherry on the cake, making it indulgent yet wholesome.

This recipe is timeless because it’s more than just food—it’s a memory in the making. From the comforting aroma of bubbling tomato sauce to the satisfaction of biting into a perfectly stuffed shell, every step of this dish connects us to the heart of home cooking. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday dinner, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to the table.