Romantic Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Name: Romantic Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 20 jumbo pasta shells; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp minced garlic; 1/2 tsp nutmeg; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Food

I absolutely love making Romantic Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells, especially when I'm looking to create a cozy and intimate meal at home. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and a zesty marinara sauce makes every bite a delight. This dish is perfect for date nights or special occasions, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare! With just a few ingredients, I can create a comforting meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings joy to the dining table.

Created by

Ivy Sanderson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:37:34.628Z

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and filling pasta shells with a creamy mix of ricotta and fresh spinach quickly became one of my favorite things to do. I remember the first time I served these shells; the delighted faces of my friends made it even more memorable!

One tip I’ve discovered is to really squeeze out the excess moisture from the spinach before mixing it with the ricotta. This simple step ensures that the filling is perfectly creamy and doesn’t make the shells soggy. I also love adding a sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously creamy and comforting filling
Perfect balance of flavors with fresh spinach and robust marinara
Impressive yet easy to make for any occasion

      

The Versatility of Ricotta

Ricotta cheese is not just a creamy filling; it also plays a vital role in the texture of the stuffed shells. When mixed with spinach and Parmesan, it creates a luscious filling that contrasts beautifully with the al dente pasta shells. If you find yourself without ricotta, you could opt for cottage cheese, but remember to drain it well to avoid excess moisture, which could make the filling too watery.

The addition of nutmeg enhances the flavors of the cheese and spinach, bringing a warm and inviting aroma to the dish. This unique spice acts as a subtle background note, complementing the creaminess without overpowering it. A little goes a long way, so don’t be tempted to add more than the recipe calls for.

Perfecting Your Marinara Sauce

A quality marinara sauce can elevate stuffed shells from good to great. If you have time, consider making your own sauce by sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil and adding crushed tomatoes, a splash of red wine, and fresh herbs. Cook it down until it thickens for a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the stuffed shells.

When using a store-bought marinara, look for one labeled 'chunky' or 'homestyle'; these varieties often have a deeper flavor and texture that adds complexity. Don't be shy about seasoning the sauce further with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of balsamic vinegar to personalize the dish.

Tips for Assembly and Serving

When stuffing the shells, ensure you don't overfill them. If the filling spills out during baking, it can lead to uneven cooking and mess in your baking dish. A heaping tablespoon per shell typically works perfectly. Also, if you find the shells difficult to stuff, gently expanding them slightly with your fingers can help make the process smoother.

For a delightful presentation, consider placing the baked shells on a bed of fresh arugula or baby spinach before serving. The bright greens provide a wonderful contrast to the vibrant marinara and creamy filling. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor and a burst of color.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious stuffed shells:

Ingredients for Stuffed Shells

20 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stuffed shells:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Fill the Shells

Using a spoon, carefully stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture. Place the filled shells in a baking dish.

Add Marinara Sauce

Pour marinara sauce generously over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating other herbs like thyme or parsley into the ricotta mixture. You can also switch up the cheese by adding feta or goat cheese for a different taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These stuffed shells can be assembled a day in advance, making them a perfect candidate for meal prep. Simply follow the filling and stuffing steps, then cover the unbaked dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through.

If you're looking to freeze stuffed shells, prepare them as directed but do not bake. After assembling, wrap the dish tightly with foil and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, and adjust the cooking time as necessary.

Serving Suggestions

These Romantic Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells pair wonderfully with a simple side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing brightens the meal and balances the richness of the cheese-filled shells. Additionally, garlic bread or a warm baguette can complement this dish perfectly, offering a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

To impress your date or guests, serve the shells in individual ramekins topped with additional marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a personal touch that shows you’ve put thought into the meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well; just be sure to properly thaw and drain it before mixing with the ricotta.

→ What can I serve with stuffed shells?

These stuffed shells pair well with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.