Hello, lovely reader! Are you in the mood for something creamy, comforting, and oh-so-cheesy? Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Cheesy Spinach Shells! This is one of my favorite dishes to whip up, especially when I want something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Not only is it delicious, but it also has a sneaky healthy twist with the addition of spinach. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Nutritional Benefits of Spinach Shells
Did you know that spinach is a superfood? It’s packed with vitamins A and C, plus iron and calcium. By adding spinach to your pasta, you’re giving your meal a nutritious boost without sacrificing taste. This recipe combines the creamy goodness of cheese with this leafy green, making it not only satisfying but also beneficial for your health. It’s the perfect way to sneak some veggies into a cheesy delight!
Fun Variations to Make
- Meat Lovers: You can add cooked ground turkey or sausage to the cheese mixture for a protein-packed version.
- Craving Extra Flavor: Toss in some roasted garlic or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based cream for a vegan spin on this comfort dish.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, ricotta, or even feta for a twist!
Cheesy Spinach Shell Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with a little olive oil.
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, chopped spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and spinach mixture using a spoon or a piping bag.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish, then arrange the stuffed shells on top.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the rest of the Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy your cheesy goodness!
Valuable Tips
- If you want an even richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or mushrooms to the spinach mixture.
- These shells are perfect for leftovers! Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to double the recipe if you’re cooking for a crowd, or want meals prepped for the week.
- If you have extra filling, it’s excellent to layer in the baking dish between the shells for more cheesy goodness.
Equipment Needed
Before you get cooking, make sure you have these tools handy:
- A large pot for boiling the pasta
- A baking dish (9×13 inch works great!)
- A mixing bowl for the cheese filling
- A spoon or piping bag for filling the pasta shells
- A measuring cup and spoons for precise measurements
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen spinach? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to your cheese mixture.
- What can I serve with Cheesy Spinach Shells? A simple side salad or some garlic bread works wonderfully to complement the dish.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes! You can assemble the shells and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce!
- What cheese can I substitute for ricotta? You can use cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a different flavor profile.
If you try making these Cheesy Spinach Shells, I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Feel free to drop a comment below or share your creations on Pinterest. Let’s spread the cheesy love together!
