Go Back
Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells (Creamy, Cheesy & Classic Italian Comfort)
Isla Marie

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

A classic Italian comfort dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and spinach, baked in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfectly balanced with a tangy tomato finish. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 5
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:
  • 20 –25 jumbo pasta shells
For the Filling:
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups spinach cooked and chopped, well drained
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
Optional Add-ins:
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch)
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

Step 1. Cook Pasta Shells
  1. Bring salted water to a boil and cook shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
Step 2. Prepare Spinach
  1. Cook fresh spinach until wilted or thaw frozen spinach. Squeeze out all excess moisture and chop finely.
Step 3. Make Filling
  1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 4. Prepare Baking Dish
  1. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 5. Stuff Shells
  1. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in the dish in a single layer.
Step 6. Add Sauce and Cheese
  1. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 7. Bake
  1. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Step 8. Rest and Serve
  1. Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Drain spinach thoroughly to prevent watery filling.
  • Do not overcook pasta; keep shells firm for easy stuffing.
  • Use a piping bag for faster and cleaner filling.
  • Add extra sauce if you prefer a saucier dish.
  • Let it rest before serving for better structure.