Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Embark on a culinary adventure with our Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells, a dish that's as heartwarming as it is delicious. 🍴 At the heart of this recipe are the vibrant, leafy greens of spinach, paired with the creamy richness of ricotta and the undeniable pull of mozzarella cheese. 🧀 Each ingredient plays a pivotal role, with the spinach adding a fresh, slightly earthy counterpoint to the lush cheeses. The result? A dish that's both comforting and sophisticated, offering a symphony of textures from the tender pasta shells to the velvety filling. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these stuffed shells are more than just a meal; they're a gesture of love, crafted to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone at the table. 🌟

Welcome to a delightful journey of flavor and comfort with our Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells recipe! This Italian-inspired dish brings together tender pasta shells filled with a rich, creamy blend of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and a medley of herbs and spices. Topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and baked to perfection in a savory spaghetti sauce, these stuffed shells are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a cozy meal to enjoy at home, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients

• 24 uncooked large pasta shells
• Pinch of salt and drizzle of oil (to prevent sticking and season the water)
• 48 oz spaghetti sauce (or as needed)
• 2 cups diced onion (white or yellow)
• 3-4 cloves garlic (smashed and minced)
• 5 oz fresh baby spinach (chopped)
• 16 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 heaping cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (approx. 2 oz)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning blend (salt-free Mrs. Dash recommended)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2-1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1-2 large eggs (for a fluffier ricotta filling)
• 1-2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese

Each ingredient in this recipe is chosen to complement and enhance the flavors, creating a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and delicious. The use of fresh spinach adds a vibrant green color and a healthy twist, while the combination of cheeses provides a rich, creamy texture that is simply irresistible. The herbs and spices infuse the dish with an aromatic essence that will fill your kitchen with the comforting smells of Italian cuisine.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare 1-2 large glass baking dishes by spreading a one-inch layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom. If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add extra sauce. This layer of sauce will prevent the pasta from sticking to the dish and infuse the shells with flavor as they bake.

Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil the pasta shells for approximately 11 minutes, or until they are tender but still firm (al dente). Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool. Adding a pinch of salt and a drizzle of oil to the boiling water will help prevent the shells from sticking together.

Prepare the Filling

While the pasta is boiling, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the spinach. Sauté the onions and garlic in a small pan over medium-high heat until they are soft and fragrant. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, and all the herbs and spices. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the mixture and stir well. For a fluffier filling, gently whisk 1-2 eggs and fold them into the mixture.

Stuff the Shells

Spoon the prepared filling into each pasta shell, ensuring they are generously filled. Place each stuffed shell into the baking dish on top of the spaghetti sauce. Arrange the shells closely together to keep them upright and prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.

Top with Cheese and Bake

If desired, drizzle extra spaghetti sauce over the tops of the shells or leave them bare to showcase the filling. Sprinkle a generous layer of freshly grated mozzarella cheese over the shells, followed by an additional sprinkling of parmesan cheese for extra flavor. For a bit of heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. Cover the dish lightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the sauce is bubbling. If the cheese has not fully melted, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once your Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are perfectly baked, it's time to serve them up and enjoy! These stuffed shells are best served hot, straight out of the oven. Pair them with a fresh green salad and some garlic bread for a complete Italian feast that will delight your family and guests. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick and easy meal.

Helpful Notes and Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the ricotta filling for an extra layer of flavor and protein. You can also substitute the spinach with other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can add a variety of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Famous chefs like Giada De Laurentiis and Lidia Bastianich recommend using high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best results. As Giada often says, "Cooking is all about finding the balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make a dish truly special."

For a more indulgent version, consider using a combination of different cheeses such as fontina, provolone, or asiago in the filling. You can also experiment with different types of pasta sauce, such as a creamy Alfredo or a tangy marinara, to change up the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Conclusion

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. With a rich, creamy filling and a savory sauce, these stuffed shells are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delicious flavors of homemade Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells!