Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Name: Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Homemade Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The delightful combination of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach tucked into perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells brings a smile to everyone’s face. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish has become a family favorite in my home. The rich, savory flavor paired with a sprinkle of mozzarella on top creates a satisfying meal that can easily impress your guests or comfort your loved ones.

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:49:36.749Z

When I first tried making these stuffed shells, I was amazed at how well the creamy ricotta complemented the fresh spinach. I often experiment with adding extra ingredients, like garlic or nutmeg, which can elevate the flavor profile. The secret is in the béchamel sauce that creates a luscious base and keeps the shells moist during baking.

Each time I prepare this dish, I pay close attention to the pasta cooking time; undercooking the shells slightly ensures they hold together beautifully when stuffed. The addition of mozzarella before baking creates a golden, bubbly topping that is simply irresistible. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy ricotta filling with a fresh spinach twist
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion
Melty mozzarella topping that adds the perfect finish

Understanding Your Ingredients

The star of the filling for Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells is ricotta cheese. Its creamy texture makes it the perfect base for the filling, providing a rich mouthfeel that complements the fresh spinach. When choosing ricotta, I recommend using whole milk ricotta for the best flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, part-skim ricotta works well too, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.

Fresh spinach is another key ingredient, adding both flavor and nutrition. Make sure to chop the spinach into small pieces; this helps to evenly distribute it throughout the creamy filling. If you don’t have fresh spinach on hand, you can substitute with thawed frozen spinach. Just be sure to drain and squeeze out the excess water before mixing it in to avoid a watery filling.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Cooking the pasta shells to the right texture is essential for a successful dish. Jumbo shells should be cooked until al dente, which usually takes 10-12 minutes in boiling salted water. This ensures they remain firm enough to hold the filling without falling apart. After draining, let them cool slightly to prevent burns when stuffing them.

When layering the sauce and cheese, ensure the marinara sauce covers the shells completely. This not only prevents them from drying out during baking but also infuses flavor into the pasta. I like to stir the marinara with a bit of water to achieve a smoother pour, making it easier to spread evenly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells:

Ingredients

12 jumbo pasta shells
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start assembling!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells:

Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions, usually for about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them well. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy layer.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow the Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta filling. This subtle enhancement can really elevate the dish. Also, make sure not to overcook the pasta shells
they should remain firm enough to hold the filling.

Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep or entertaining. You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the stuffed shells before baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They should keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake them from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

While Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells are delicious on their own, serving them with a side salad and garlic bread can round out the meal beautifully. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy shells. The acidity of the dressing can also cut through some of the creaminess, making for a delightful pairing.

For a fun twist, consider adding other ingredients to your filling—like sautéed mushrooms or cooked sausage—to customize the flavors to your liking. Just be sure not to overload the shells. Keeping the filling balanced will prevent spills and ensure each bite contains a harmonious mix of flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the filling.

→ What other fillings can I try?

Feel free to experiment with other ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms, artichokes, or different cheeses like feta for a unique twist.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.