Description

Creamy, cheesy, and full of hearty spinach, these *Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells* are a comforting dinner idea that satisfies every pasta craving. Jumbo shells are filled with a rich ricotta-spinach mixture, topped with melty cheese, and smothered in a savory marinara sauce. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal for guests, this easy recipe delivers the kind of flavor that makes it a family favorite. It also ranks among the best easy dinner ideas, vegetarian pasta dishes, and food ideas for meal prep.

Ingredients

16 jumbo pasta shells

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups fresh spinach

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 egg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Let cool.

3. In a bowl, combine ricotta, half the mozzarella and Parmesan, spinach, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

4. Fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture.

5. Spread 1 cup marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top.

6. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

7. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or extra Parmesan.

Notes

Make sure the shells are al dente before baking to avoid mushy pasta.

You can use frozen spinach—just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 shells
Calories: 420
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 690mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: easy dinner, spinach pasta, stuffed shells, family meals