Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells Made Simple

Watch the step-by-step cooking video at the bottom of the recipe!👇

Stuffed pasta shells are a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells Made Simple recipe combines tender pasta with a creamy, cheesy filling of spinach and ricotta, baked in a rich tomato sauce. It’s easy to make, hearty, and sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 20–25 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh basil for garnish

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, chopped spinach, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Shells

1. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture and place them in the dish.
3. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
4. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
3. Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Pasta Shells

• Use fresh spinach for a brighter flavor, or thoroughly drain frozen spinach to avoid excess moisture.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it will finish cooking in the oven while baking.
• Customize by adding cooked sausage, mushrooms, or other vegetables to the filling.

These Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells are simple, cheesy, and full of flavor—a perfect dish for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

Recipe video