Name: Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Baked in Marinara Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 jumbo pasta shells; 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (divided); 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry; 1 large egg; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting Italian classic that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Baked in Marinara Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a rich, creamy mixture of fresh spinach and ricotta cheese, all lovingly baked in vibrant marinara sauce and finished off with a blanket of gooey melted mozzarella and parmesan. This dish hits all the right notes—comforting, fresh, and packed with flavors that come together beautifully for a family-friendly meal that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four steps of making a pasta dish. The first part is a white pot with cooked pasta shells in light yellow color. The second part is a white pan holding cooked spinach, with a wooden spoon resting inside. The third part is a white plate with cooked pasta, yellow cheese, and two small round orange pieces along with some spinach. The last part is a white baking dish filled with pasta shells stuffed with spinach and cheese, arranged neatly in rows. The background surface is white marble textured. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the perfect balance in this dish is all about using simple, quality ingredients that each bring their own magic to the party. From the tender pasta shells to the creamy ricotta filling and the tangy marinara sauce, every element plays an essential part in creating this delicious, colorful masterpiece.

Jumbo pasta shells: These roomy shells are perfect for stuffing and hold the filling beautifully during baking.
Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, ricotta creates the luscious base for the filling.
Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts perfectly to give you that irresistibly gooey, cheesy top layer.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to deepen the cheesy goodness.
Frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry: Packs a nutritious punch and keeps the filling vibrant and fresh.
Egg: Helps bind the filling ingredients together for that perfect, sliceable consistency.
Marinara sauce: Bright, tangy, and aromatic, it bathes the shells in authentic Italian flavor.
Garlic powder: Elevates the filling with a hint of savory warmth without overpowering.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into harmony.

How to Make Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Baked in Marinara Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Jumbo Shells

Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells in salted water according to the package instructions until they are al dente—tender but still holding their shape. This step is key because you want the shells sturdy enough to hold all that delicious filling without falling apart in the oven. Once cooked, drain them carefully and set aside to cool slightly before filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach and Ricotta Filling

While the pasta cooks, combine ricotta cheese, the thawed and well-drained spinach, egg, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Stir everything thoroughly so the mixture becomes creamy and evenly seasoned. This filling is the heart of your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Baked in Marinara Recipe, so take a moment to savor that fresh, cheesy aroma as you mix.

Step 3: Spread Marinara Sauce

Lightly coat the bottom of a baking dish with a generous layer of marinara sauce. This sauce will not only keep the shells moist but will infuse the entire dish with rich tomato flavor as it bakes. Don’t skimp here—think of it as a flavorful bed that cradles your stuffed shells perfectly.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

One by one, fill each cooked shell with a hearty spoonful of the spinach and ricotta filling. Arrange them snugly in the baking dish atop the marinara bed. This is the fun part—seeing those beautiful shells lined up, bursting with creamy green filling—it’s almost too pretty to bake!

Step 5: Add Remaining Sauce and Cheese

Pour the rest of the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle extra mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top. This cheesy layer will melt into a golden, bubbling crust that makes this Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Baked in Marinara Recipe so irresistibly satisfying.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C / 350°F for 30–35 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. As it bakes, the flavors meld into a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and tangy goodness that will fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma.

How to Serve Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Baked in Marinara Recipe

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Baked in Marinara Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the richness of the stuffed shells. If you love a little heat, a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can brighten and balance the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, a side of garlic bread to sop up every last bit of sauce, or even lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a fresh contrast. The combination makes for a well-rounded, satisfying meal every time.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family dinner, serve the stuffed shells straight from the baking dish, encouraging everyone to dig in family-style. For a dinner party, plate individual servings garnished with microgreens and a drizzle of basil pesto for an elegant touch. You can even dish them out in pretty, single-serve ramekins for a charming presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Baked in Marinara Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled shells before baking by covering the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and plastic wrap. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making this a fantastic option for meal prep or a make-ahead dinner solution.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the leftovers covered with foil at 175°C / 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to refresh that golden cheese crust. Alternatively, microwave portions on a microwave-safe plate, but baking is best to preserve texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, sauté it briefly and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing it with the ricotta filling to avoid sogginess.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute ricotta with a plant-based cheese alternative, use vegan mozzarella, and replace the egg with a flax egg or omit it while ensuring the filling stays firm enough.

Can I prepare this recipe without baking right away?

Definitely! Assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready, just add sauce and cheese and bake as directed.

What type of marinara sauce works best?

Choose a high-quality, flavorful marinara with good acidity and herbs to complement the creamy filling. Homemade or your favorite store-bought variety both work great.

Can I add meat to the filling?

You can add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for a heartier version, but keep in mind this Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Baked in Marinara Recipe shines as a vegetarian dish on its own.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Baked in Marinara Recipe is pure comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to pull off but feels luxurious every time. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner, I promise this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite worth savoring again and again. Grab those jumbo shells and get ready to fill your kitchen with heartwarming Italian magic!