Here’s a classic and delicious Homemade Stuffed Shells recipe with a creamy ricotta and spinach filling, topped with marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or even a cozy gathering!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed and chopped (or use frozen, thawed, and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (about 9 minutes). Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, chopped spinach, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Shells
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a large baking dish.
- Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it with the ricotta mixture using a spoon. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, seam side up.
- Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella over the sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Shells
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and serve warm.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add ground beef or Italian sausage to the marinara sauce.
- You can make this dish ahead of time—assemble the shells, cover, and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.
These Homemade Stuffed Shells are a comforting Italian classic that everyone will love!
