Stuffed Shells: Ultimate Cheesy Spinach Delight

Stuffed shells have always held a special place in my heart. As a child, I remember the joy of helping my grandmother fill pasta shells with a rich, savory mixture. Her kitchen was filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of tomato sauce and cheese. Those were moments of magic, where simple ingredients became something extraordinary.

Today, I carry on that tradition in my own kitchen, bringing my family together with this timeless classic. Stuffed shells are more than just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors and textures, a dish that turns an ordinary day into a special occasion. With every bite, I am reminded of the love and joy that food can bring.

In this recipe, we explore a delightful twist on the traditional stuffed shells, incorporating fresh spinach and a blend of cheeses to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. This culinary journey will guide you through each step, ensuring a rewarding cooking experience. Let’s dive into the world of stuffed shells and discover the joy of creating something truly delicious.

Stuffed Shells

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Learn how to make delicious stuffed shells with our easy-to-follow recipe. Discover the secret to creamy ricotta filling and flavorful marinara sauce!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 18 to 20 jumbo pasta shells (about 350–400 g)
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• 5 ounces (140 g) fresh spinach
• 2 cups (475 g) beef cheese
• 1/4 cup (25 g) grated vegan cheese, plus more for sprinkling
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) red pepper flakes
• 3/4 teaspoon (4 ml) sea salt, plus more for the pasta water
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups (475 ml) Tomato Sauce*, plus more for serving
• Chopped fresh parsley, for serving

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 425°F.
2. Place the spinach in a steaming basket over a pot containing 1 inch of water. Allow the water to reach a simmer, cover the pot, and steam the spinach for 1 minute until it wilts. Transfer it to a strainer, remove the excess moisture, and chop it finely.
3. In a large pot filled with salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells for about 10 minutes until they are firm to the bite. Drain them and drizzle with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the wilted spinach with the beef cheese, grated vegan cheese, garlic, oregano, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and a few turns of black pepper.
5. Spread the tomato sauce across the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Fill each pasta shell with the prepared mixture and arrange them in the dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Serve with additional tomato sauce on the side.

Notes

• Thoroughly drain and chop steamed spinach to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
• Customize the filling with your favorite herbs or spices for a personalized touch.
• Enhance the flavor by using a variety of cheeses or adding parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 15g

Keywords: stuffed shells, spinach ricotta, baked pasta, marinara sauce, vegetarian dinner

Creating Delicious Stuffed Shells

Fundamentals

The foundation of perfect stuffed shells lies in the quality of ingredients and the balance of flavors. Fresh spinach, high-quality cheese, and robust tomato sauce are key components. Spinach adds a fresh note, while the cheese provides richness. The tomato sauce ties everything together with its tangy sweetness.

Understanding these elements ensures that each bite offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. Choosing fresh spinach and combining it with a mix of beef cheese and vegan cheese creates a harmonious filling. The addition of garlic, oregano, and lemon zest elevates the flavor profile, making each shell a bite of culinary delight.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preparing the spinach, which forms the heart of the filling. Steam it gently to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. After steaming, remove excess moisture to prevent a watery filling. Chop it finely, ensuring it mixes well with the cheese blend.

Next, cook the jumbo pasta shells to perfection. The key is to boil them until they’re firm to the bite, about 10 minutes. Once drained, drizzle them with olive oil to prevent sticking, a small step that makes filling them easier later. These simple preparations set the stage for assembling a delicious dish.

Mastering the Art of Stuffed Shells

Technique

Filling the shells is an art, requiring a gentle touch to avoid tearing. Use a small spoon or your hands to carefully stuff each shell with the spinach and cheese mixture. The goal is to fill them generously without overstuffing, which can cause them to burst during baking.

Once filled, arrange the shells in a baking dish lined with tomato sauce. The sauce not only adds flavor but also keeps the shells moist as they bake. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, which helps retain moisture and ensures even cooking. This technique results in perfectly tender shells, bursting with flavor.

Tips/tricks

For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking and add a sprinkle of grated vegan cheese. This adds a delightful contrast to the creamy filling. Additionally, preparing the tomato sauce from scratch can enhance the dish, allowing you to control the seasoning and texture.

Experimenting with different cheese blends can also elevate the flavors. While this recipe uses a mix of beef cheese and vegan cheese, feel free to explore other options. Consider using ricotta or mozzarella for a creamier texture. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize the dish to your taste.

Perfecting Your Stuffed Shells

Perfecting results

Achieving perfect stuffed shells requires attention to detail and a willingness to adapt. Start by ensuring the filling is well-seasoned. Taste it before stuffing the shells, adjusting the seasoning as needed. A well-balanced filling enhances the overall dish, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

Baking time is crucial. Overbaking can lead to dry shells, while underbaking may result in a raw filling. Follow the recommended baking time, but also use visual cues. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the shells should be tender yet hold their shape. This balance results in a dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your shells turn out too dry, consider adding more tomato sauce before baking. This additional moisture can prevent the pasta from drying out. For a richer flavor, add more cheese on top during the final baking minutes.

Feel free to explore different filling variations. Incorporating ingredients like mushrooms, as seen in our Mushroom BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers, can add new dimensions to the dish. Alternatively, try adding a touch of sweetness with fruit, as with our Decadent Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears.

Serving Stuffed Shells with Finesse

Serving/presentation

Presentation enhances the dining experience, turning a simple dish into a feast for the eyes. Arrange the baked shells neatly on a large platter, allowing each shell to shine. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.

Serve the shells with extra tomato sauce on the side, giving guests the option to add more if desired. This not only caters to individual preferences but also keeps the dish moist and flavorful throughout the meal.

Pairings/storage

Pair these stuffed shells with a crisp salad, balancing the richness with fresh, crunchy greens. This combination creates a well-rounded meal that satisfies on multiple levels. For a simple side, consider our One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells recipe, offering a comforting complement to the main dish.

To store leftovers, place the shells in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep for up to three days, making them a convenient option for meal prep. Reheat in an oven, covered with foil, to retain moisture and flavor.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells are a delightful way to bring people together, offering a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and enjoy. The combination of spinach, cheese, and tomato sauce creates a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can achieve perfect results every time.

The beauty of stuffed shells lies in their adaptability, allowing you to explore new flavors and techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe provides a rewarding culinary journey. Embrace the joy of cooking and the magic of transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Explore more delicious recipes and discover the joy of creative cooking at GrandMmaDelights. From Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles to Venison Stuffed Mushrooms Appetizer, there’s always something new to inspire your culinary adventures.

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