In this simple yet delicious stuffed shells recipe, we bring together a trio of cheeses with swiftly sautéed spinach, marinara sauce, and generously sized pasta shells to create a satisfying and crowd-pleasing vegetarian dinner.
During my childhood, I was one of those peculiar kids who actually relished eating vegetables. For the longest time, spinach was my all-time favourite vegetable. I would happily devour ample bowls of it, either lightly steamed or occasionally adorned with a sprinkle of cheese.
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Those leafy greens were my jam. Before you begin envying my parents for having a child content with munching on spinach, sweet potatoes, peas, tomatoes, and other delights from our family vegetable garden, they’ll be quick to remind you that they also endured my tumultuous teenage years. Rest assured, it all balances out in the grand scheme of things.
Fast forward to today, and we’re still big fans of spinach. I enjoy incorporating it into recipes to infuse a healthy boost. In this spinach and ricotta stuffed shells creation, we combine swiftly sautéed spinach with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella cheeses. We nestle this delightful mixture inside oversized pasta shells, then bake it all to bubbling perfection. The outcome? A nutritious and hearty baked pasta masterpiece that’s sure to please a gathering of vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
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Stuffed Shells Recipe Video:
Ingredients:
- 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
How to Prepare Stuffed Shells
Stuffed shells are a fairly impressive dish – they’re flavourful, comforting, and ideal for entertaining – but they’re still really simple to make! Here’s how this recipe goes:
Step 1: First thing’s first
Before you start mixing up the filling, you’ll need to steam the spinach. When it’s tender and vibrant green, remove it from the heat, place it in a strainer, and squeeze out the excess moisture. Roughly chop it. Then, you can stir it together with the ricotta, pecorino, garlic, lemon zest, oregano, and red pepper flakes to make the filling.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells:
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them and set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Fill each cooked pasta shell halfway with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Fill the shells and place them in a baking dish.
Step 5: Top with Marinara Sauce:
Distribute the marinara sauce evenly among the packed shells. Make sure each shell is coated with sauce.
Step 6: Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the shells.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve:
Remove from the oven and set away for a few moments to cool.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Serve your delicious creamy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells hot and enjoy.
This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings, depending on how many shells you’d like to serve per portion. It’s a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Nutrition Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | Approximately 450 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| – Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 760mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| – Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 24g |
Key Nutritional Highlights:
- Calories: Each serving contains around 450 calories, providing a satisfying and filling meal option.
- Total Fat: With 18g of total fat per serving, including 9g of saturated fat, this dish offers a moderate amount of fats for flavor and satiety.
- Cholesterol: This recipe provides 85mg of cholesterol per serving, which is 28% of the recommended daily intake, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
- Sodium: Each serving contains 760mg of sodium, so be mindful of your sodium intake, especially if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Total Carbohydrates: With 45g of total carbohydrates per serving, this dish offers a good source of energy, mainly from the pasta shells and marinara sauce.
- Dietary Fiber: Each serving provides 4g of dietary fiber, contributing to digestive health and helping you feel full and satisfied.
- Protein: This dish is protein-rich, with 24g of protein per serving, making it a great option for muscle health and overall nutrition.
Note: The actual nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. Adjustments can be made to accommodate individual dietary needs and preferences.
Key Human-Friendly Aspects:
- Protein-Rich: Each serving provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall nutrition.
- Balanced Macronutrients: The dish offers a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, providing a well-rounded meal.
- Fiber Content: With 4 grams of dietary fibre per serving, it contributes to digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Moderate Calories: The calorie count per serving is moderate, making it a suitable option for a satisfying meal.
- Source of Calcium: The recipe includes Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, which provide calcium important for bone health.
- Rich in Flavour: The addition of herbs and spices like oregano, basil, garlic, and marinara sauce enhances the flavour without relying heavily on salt.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is entirely vegetarian, making it suitable for those who prefer meatless options.
- Versatile: It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to accommodate personal preferences, such as using gluten-free pasta or adjusting the cheese types.
Please note that the actual nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Storage Instructions:
Keep your Stuffed Shells fresh for later enjoyment with these simple storage guidelines:
- Refrigeration: Place any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best taste and freshness.
- Freezing: For longer storage, allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before transferring them into freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date and freeze. Enjoy within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheat & Reuse Instructions:
Reheating Instructions:
Step 1: Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the desired portion of stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish.
- Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out, and bake for around 20 to 25 minutes, or until it’s warmed all the way through.
Step 2: Microwave Method:
- Transfer a portion of stuffed shells onto a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover it with a damp paper towel to maintain its moisture.
- Heat it on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through.
Reuse Instructions:
Transform your leftover Stuffed Shells into exciting new dishes with these creative ideas:
- Stuffed Shells Soup: Chop up leftover stuffed shells and combine them with broth, vegetables, and herbs to create a hearty and comforting soup.
- Stuffed Shells Casserole: Layer leftover stuffed shells in a baking dish with additional marinara sauce and cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden for a delicious casserole.
- Stuffed Shells Salad: Serve cold stuffed shells over a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad dressing for a refreshing and filling salad.
Suggestions for Serving Stuffed Shells
Before presenting your delightful stuffed shells, enhance their Flavors by generously sprinkling them with more pecorino (or Parmesan) cheese and a dash of fresh parsley. Don’t forget to provide extra marinara sauce on the side. My personal preference is to drizzle it over the shells as I Savor each bite, ensuring a delightful burst of sauce in every mouthful.
To complete this satisfying meal, consider pairing it with a refreshing green salad and some delectable bread. I often accompany these stuffed shells with my Homemade Caesar Salad, although my Arugula Salad, Beet Salad, or Simple Green Salad also make splendid companions for this recipe. When it comes to bread, the options are endless! opt for a crusty loaf, or indulge in some rosemary focaccia, garlic knots, or dinner rolls.
Enjoy, your delightful creamy spinach and ricotta stuffed shells while relishing the comforting flavors of this classic Italian-inspired dish.
FAQ’s
Q. What are Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells made of?
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells are a delicious twist on classic chicken Parmesan. They’re made by filling large pasta shells with a mixture of cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, then topping them with marinara sauce and extra mozzarella cheese. The stuffed shells are baked until golden and bubbly, making them a comforting and cheesy meal.
Q. Can I make Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells ahead of time. You can assemble the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked shells for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it straight from the fridge or freezer (you may need to add extra baking time if frozen).
Q. What kind of chicken should I use for Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells?
For Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells, cooked, shredded chicken is usually the best choice. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook chicken breasts or thighs yourself and shred them. Just make sure the chicken is cooked through and well-seasoned for the best flavor.
Q. Can I use a different type of pasta for Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells?
While large pasta shells are traditional for this dish because they hold the filling well, you can substitute with other pasta shapes if needed. Manicotti is another great option since it’s a similar size and shape. Just ensure the pasta you choose is big enough to stuff and can hold the filling securely.
Q. Can I make Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells without ricotta cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with a different cheese if you prefer. Some great alternatives include cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar texture, or you could use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan if you want to keep it cheesy without ricotta. The texture may change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Q. How do I keep my Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells from being too dry?
To prevent your Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells from drying out, make sure you have enough marinara sauce in the dish to keep the shells moist during baking. Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking to lock in moisture, and remove it toward the end to allow the cheese to brown. You can also add a little extra sauce on top of the shells before baking if you want a saucier dish.
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