Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Name: Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large jumbo pasta shells; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups marinara sauce

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Collection

I love making Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells because they combine rich flavors with a delightful texture that makes dinner feel special. The process of stuffing each shell with the creamy filling is not only enjoyable, but it also creates a dish that's impressive to serve at gatherings. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time and simply bake it when ready. Trust me, your family will ask for seconds, and it'll become a go-to recipe in your household just like it has for mine!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:20:38.425Z

When I first made these Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells for a family gathering, I was surprised by how quickly they disappeared. The combination of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and a hint of garlic creates a filling that's not just delicious but also comforting. I’ve found that a little extra seasoning goes a long way, and don’t forget to sprinkle some cheese on top for that melty goodness!

The best tip I can offer is to undercook the pasta shells slightly. This way, they’ll hold up beautifully during baking and won't break apart when you stuff them. It’s all about achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures, and these stuffed shells deliver every time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy ricotta filling enriched with fresh spinach
Perfectly baked with a bubbly cheese topping
Great for meal prep or serving at special occasions

Perfecting the Stuffing Technique

Stuffing the shells is an essential step in achieving the perfect Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells. I recommend using a piping bag to fill the shells, as it prevents mess and ensures a generous amount of filling in each shell. If you don't have a piping bag, a resealable plastic bag with a corner cut off works just as well. Take your time with this step, as even distribution of the filling results in a balanced flavor and texture in every bite.

When stuffing the shells, avoid overfilling, as this can lead to spillage during baking. A tablespoon of filling per shell is usually sufficient, leaving some room for the shells to expand as they cook. Align the stuffed shells in your baking dish in a single layer and ensure they are evenly spaced. This allows the marinara sauce to properly envelop each shell, creating a deliciously saucy and cohesive dish.

Choosing the Right Cheese

The cheese combination in this recipe significantly influences the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Ricotta cheese offers a creamy base, while the addition of Parmesan enhances the dish with a nutty flavor profile. If you want to heighten the cheesy aspect, consider substituting half of the ricotta with mascarpone for an even richer filling. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a lighter option, cottage cheese can be used—just be sure to blend it until smooth to avoid curds in the filling.

For the shredded mozzarella topping, choosing a high-moisture cheese can lead to a creamier finish, as it melts beautifully and becomes gooey. You can also experiment with flavored mozzarella or blend in some provolone for an extra depth of flavor. Just remember, cheese quality matters; fresh cheese enhances not just the taste but also the final presentation, allowing for that lovely golden, bubbly crust.

Ingredients

Stuffed Shells Ingredients

12 large jumbo pasta shells
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells for about 8 minutes, until al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully stuff each shell with the filling mixture and place them in a baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.

Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve these stuffed shells with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Make-Ahead Options

Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells are a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can prepare the stuffed shells up to the point of baking, then cover them with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or when hosting guests. If you prefer to freeze them, place the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and they will keep well for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before proceeding with the cooking instructions.

To ensure even heating and proper texture when reheating, consider covering the baking dish with foil while baking from frozen. This traps moisture, preventing the filling from drying out. After 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C), remove the foil to allow the cheese to become bubbly and golden. This method guarantees a fresh-tasting meal that retains all the delightful creamy textures.

Flavor Variations

While the classic spin of spinach and ricotta is always a hit, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste. Adding ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, cooked chicken, or sun-dried tomatoes can introduce new flavors and textures; just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly. Experimenting with herbs, such as basil or thyme, can also elevate the dish and create a delicious variation that surprises your guests.

For a touch of heat, consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the cheese filling. Serving each portion with a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving jazzes it up. This flexibility allows you to tailor the stuffed shells to various palates or dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a delightful meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the shells and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed shells?

Absolutely! You can freeze them either before or after baking. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cream cheese or cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta cheese for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

This recipe is already vegetarian. However, you can add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor!