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A close-up of large, creamy ricotta cheese-stuffed pasta shells topped with fresh spinach and melted cheese, arranged neatly on a white platter with a golden-brown crust and vibrant green spinach visible.

Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells – A Healthy Veggie Dinner

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Enjoy a delicious and healthy vegetarian dinner with this Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe. Filled with fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and gooey cheese, these stuffed pasta shells make a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this dish combines tender pasta with a flavorful veggie and cheese filling topped with marinara sauce.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box of large pasta shells (about 20 shells)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the large pasta shells in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, minced garlic, and egg. Season with salt and pepper, then mix until smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each cooked shell with the cheese and spinach mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish coated with a little olive oil or non-stick spray.
  4. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes for a golden top.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute ricotta with tofu-based ricotta or vegan cheese and use a plant-based egg replacer.
  • This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months for an easy make-ahead meal.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell (about 1/6 of recipe)
  • Calories: 280 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg