Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells Simple and Tasty Meal

If you’re looking for a simple, tasty meal that packs a punch, you’ve found it! Cheesy spinach stuffed shells are not only delicious but also fun to make. I’ll walk you through easy steps to create this comforting dish. With a blend of creamy cheese and fresh spinach, these stuffed shells will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on your new favorite recipe!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells, you need the following items:

– 20 jumbo pasta shells

– 2 cups ricotta cheese

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 cups marinara sauce

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Substitutes and Alternatives

You can swap some ingredients for others. Here are some ideas:

– Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter option.

– Swap mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a different flavor.

– If you don’t have fresh spinach, frozen spinach works well. Just thaw and drain it first.

– For a vegan version, use tofu or a plant-based cheese.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells offers a tasty balance of nutrients. Here’s a quick look:

– Calories: About 400-450 per serving

– Protein: 20g

– Carbohydrates: 45g

– Fat: 20g

– Fiber: 4g

– Calcium: Significant from cheese and spinach

This meal gives you protein, vitamins, and a fulfilling taste. Check the full recipe for more details on serving sizes and preparation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step warms up the oven so your stuffed shells bake evenly.

Cook the Pasta

Next, boil a large pot of salted water. Add 20 jumbo pasta shells and cook them until they are al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once ready, drain the shells and rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps keep them from sticking.

Prepare the Filling

In a big mixing bowl, add 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella (save some for later!), and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan. Also, add 2 cups of finely chopped spinach, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until it’s nice and creamy.

Stuff the Shells

Now it’s time to fill the shells! Use a spoon or a small spatula to carefully stuff each shell with the spinach mixture. Don’t overfill them; just make the filling level with the edge of the shell.

Assemble the Dish

Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the rest of the marinara sauce over the shells. Lastly, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. This will make your dish extra cheesy.

Bake and Serve

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, take off the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. This will melt the cheese and give it a nice golden-brown top. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pretty touch and serve!

If you want the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Perfect Shells

To make perfect stuffed shells, start by cooking them just right. Use a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil before adding the shells. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are al dente. This means they should still have a slight bite to them. After cooking, drain the shells. Rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking. This helps keep them firm and prevents them from breaking.

How to Avoid Sticking

Preventing the shells from sticking together is easy. After cooking, make sure to rinse them with cold water right away. You can also add a bit of oil to the water before cooking. This helps to keep the shells from clumping. If they still stick, try using a non-stick baking dish. This will help them slide out easily once baked.

Enhancements for Flavor

You can boost the flavor of your Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells in many ways. Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the dish. Feel free to mix in some red pepper flakes for a little heat. You can also try using different cheeses. A mix of feta or goat cheese can add a nice tang. For a richer taste, consider adding cooked sausage or ground meat to the filling. These simple changes can transform the dish into something special.

Variations

Vegetarian Variants

You can easily make Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells vegetarian-friendly. Just focus on fresh veggies. Try adding chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the filling. These veggies add taste and texture. You can also swap out the marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce. This creates a rich flavor that pairs well with the cheese.

Meat Additions

If you want a heartier dish, consider adding meat. Ground beef, turkey, or sausage works great. Cook the meat before mixing it with the cheese and spinach. This gives the filling a savory depth. You can even use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to match the meat.

Gluten-Free Options

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta shells. They are easy to find in most stores now. Be sure to check the label for gluten-free certification. You can also make your own pasta if you want to get creative. For the sauce, choose a gluten-free marinara. This way, you can enjoy your cheesy, delicious meal without any worries.

These variations let you customize your dish to fit your taste. With these ideas, you can make Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells your own! For the full recipe, check out the details above.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cheesy spinach stuffed shells in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to let them cool before sealing. This helps keep the shells firm. If you have extra marinara sauce, store it separately.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, take the shells out of the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shells in an oven-safe dish. Pour a little marinara sauce on top to keep them moist. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes. Check that they are heated through before serving.

Freezing Tips

You can freeze cheesy spinach stuffed shells if you want to save some for later. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Bake as directed in the full recipe, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

How can I make Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

You can prepare Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells a day in advance. Cook the pasta and make the filling. Stuff the shells and place them in your baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells?

I love serving a fresh salad with Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely. Garlic bread also makes a great side. You can add roasted vegetables for a healthy touch. These sides balance the meal and add flavor.

Can I use different cheeses in the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses. You can use goat cheese for a tangy taste. Cream cheese adds richness. Feta can give a Mediterranean twist. Just keep the overall texture in mind. You want a creamy filling that holds well in the shells.

How do I know when the stuffed shells are done baking?

Your stuffed shells are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly. The top should be slightly golden. You can check by gently lifting a shell with a fork. If the filling is hot throughout, they are ready. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

In this post, we explored ingredients, cooking steps, tips, variations, and storage for Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells. You now know how to choose the right ingredients and avoid common mistakes. These delicious shells can fit many diets, too. With these insights, you’re ready to impress your family and friends. I hope your cooking brings joy and good meals to your table. Enjoy every bite!

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Indulge in a delicious twist on pasta night with these Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells! This easy-to-follow recipe combines creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella for a dish that's as comforting as it is tasty. Perfect for families or cozy gatherings, these stuffed shells are sure to impress. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring this cheesy delight to your table tonight!

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Ingredients

  

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once your shells are assembled.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.

Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed and creamy.

Stuff the Shells: With a spoon or a small spatula, gently fill each cooked pasta shell with the creamy spinach mixture. Be careful to avoid over-stuffing, ensuring that the filling is just level with the edge of the shell.

Assemble the Dish: Spread approximately 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, followed by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella cheese to create a cheesy crown.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and bubble, achieving a delicious golden-brown top.

Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes for easier serving. Garnish the stuffed shells with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and delightful aroma before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4-6

- Presentation Tips: For an enticing presentation, serve the stuffed shells on a large, decorative platter. Drizzle extra marinara sauce over the top and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil for a burst of color that enhances the visual appeal and flavor of the dish.