Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Name: Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making these Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells, especially when I want to impress friends and family with a dish that's both comforting and elegant. The delightful combination of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and aromatic garlic comes together beautifully to create something truly special. Each bite offers a rich texture and flavor that reminds me of cozy dinners with loved ones. Plus, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for gatherings.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:16:39.692Z

When I first decided to make Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells, I was amazed at how easy it was to bring such delightful flavors together. Cooking the spinach only briefly before mixing it with ricotta ensures it maintains its vibrant color and nutrients, while the soft shells gently cradle the rich filling. I also discovered that adding a sprinkle of nutmeg enhances the creaminess and provides a subtle warmth to the dish.

While preparing this meal, I've found that baking the shells in a marinara sauce helps the flavors meld beautifully. It's essential to top them with mozzarella and bake until bubbly, resulting in a tantalizing golden crust. This recipe has become a favorite in my household, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy filling that satisfies your cravings
A delicious way to incorporate fresh spinach into your meal
Perfect for both casual weeknights and fancy dinner parties

Ingredient Insights

The balance of cheeses in this creamy filling is crucial for achieving the right texture. Ricotta provides a light and fluffy base, while mozzarella contributes an extra layer of creaminess and a delightful stretch when melted. Parmesan adds a salty nutty flavor, which elevates the overall taste profile. Don’t be tempted to skip the nutmeg; just a pinch enhances the flavors of the spinach and cheese, giving the filling a more complex depth.

Using fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe, as it wilts beautifully and retains a vibrant color that adds appeal. If you can’t find fresh spinach, substituting with thawed frozen spinach is an option, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture to prevent a watery filling. For a twist, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for an extra layer of flavor.

Stuffing Techniques

Carefully filling the shells can be a game changer in presentation and taste. Use a small spoon or a piping bag for precise stuffing; just be careful not to overfill, as the mixture can spill out during baking. An excellent tip is to lay the stuffed shells in the dish with the opening facing up, allowing the cheese on top to melt properly and form a delightful crust.

For ensuring the shells don’t stick to each other during cooking, you might consider lightly coating them with a drizzle of olive oil right after draining. This also adds a subtle richness. When pouring the marinara sauce, use enough to coat the shells but be mindful that excess sauce can lead to a soggy bottom, so a cup or two should suffice.

Ingredients

To bring this delightful dish to life, gather the following ingredients:

For the Stuffed Shells

12 large pasta shells
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinara Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to elevate the flavors!

Instructions

Here's how to prepare these delicious stuffed shells:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic for a minute, then add the chopped spinach. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before mixing with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Shells

Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked shell with the spinach mixture and place them in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Bake

Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with Italian herbs.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mixing in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the filling.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells ahead of time can streamline your meal prep. Once you’ve filled the shells, they can be arranged in a baking dish and covered tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This lets the flavors meld beautifully. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping them in the oven for even cooking.

If you wish to freeze these shells, arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara, and seal tightly with foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes, adding the foil for the first half of the cooking time to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells pair wonderfully with a light salad or warm bread for a fulfilling meal. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish. You could also serve these with crusty garlic bread, perfect for sopping up the marinara sauce.

To take this dish up a notch for special occasions, consider garnishing with fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat and color. A drizzle of balsamic reduction could be another fabulous finish that balances the creaminess with its acidity, creating a truly gourmet presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain it before mixing it with the ricotta.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Simply use vegetable-based marinara sauce for a fully vegetarian meal.

→ Can I prepare these shells in advance?

Absolutely! You can stuff the shells a day ahead, store them covered in the fridge, and bake them right before serving.

→ What should I serve with stuffed shells?

These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!