Description
Stuffed Shells Pasta is the ultimate cozy-meets-classy dinner idea that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, spinach, and herbs, then nestled in rich marinara and topped with melty mozzarella. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals, family gatherings, or quick weeknight comfort food. Whether you’re looking for hearty food ideas, classic Italian-inspired dishes, or healthy snack-style leftovers, these stuffed shells check every box. It’s a go-to recipe you’ll make again and again.
Ingredients
20 jumbo pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
5 cups fresh spinach
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, about 8–9 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Let cool slightly, then chop finely.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, chopped spinach, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a creamy filling.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Fill each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Arrange filled shells over the marinara in the baking dish.
6. Spoon remaining marinara sauce over the shells. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and extra Parmesan if desired.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
Make sure to squeeze excess liquid from the spinach before adding it to the filling — this keeps it from getting watery.
Use high-quality marinara for the best flavor, especially if using store-bought.
You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready — perfect for meal prep or guests.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 shells
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: stuffed shells, pasta recipe, ricotta stuffed pasta, easy dinner, baked pasta