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Spinach Stuffed Shells2

Classic Spinach Stuffed Shells

A comforting vegetarian pasta dish featuring jumbo shells stuffed with a creamy three cheese and spinach filling, baked in savory marinara.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 12 ounce package jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 10 ounce packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 24 ounce jar marinara sauce (about 2 1/2 cups)
  • Optional: A pinch of nutmeg

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  • Pour about half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of the dish and spread it evenly.
  • Cook the jumbo shells in a large pot of boiling water according to the package directions, but aim for "al dente" (usually 1 to 2 minutes less than the box suggests). Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
  • In a large bowl, combine the squeezed dry spinach, ricotta, 1 1/2 cups of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, salt, and garlic powder. Stir with a fork until well combined. Add a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
  • Stuff each cooked shell with approximately 2 tablespoons of the cheese and spinach mixture.
  • Arrange the shells in the prepared baking dish, open side up.
  • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the tops of the shells and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
  • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil during the last 5 to 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to become bubbly and slightly golden.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!