Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara. This hearty, flavorful recipe brings together the rich taste of stuffed pasta shells filled with a creamy spinach mixture and the classic tang of marinara sauce. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a meal to impress guests, this dish is a go-to favorite. In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about making this mouthwatering meal, including step-by-step instructions, tips for customization, and answers to your most common questions.

Why You’ll Love Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara

Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about why Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara is such a popular dish.

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of tender pasta, a creamy spinach filling, and the tangy sweetness of marinara sauce creates a satisfying and well-balanced flavor profile. The rich spinach filling perfectly complements the savory marinara sauce, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Great for Any Occasion

This dish is incredibly versatile. You can make it as a simple weeknight dinner or dress it up for special occasions. It’s the perfect meal for vegetarians, but also great for meat lovers who want a lighter, veggie-packed option.

Easy to Make

Although it may sound fancy, Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara is surprisingly easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a flavorful, comforting meal in no time.

Ingredients for Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara

To make this dish, you don’t need anything too fancy—just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

For the Stuffed Shells:

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Fresh spinach (or frozen spinach works too)
• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

For the Marinara Sauce:

• Canned crushed tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Onion
• Dried oregano
• Fresh basil (optional)

How to Make Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara

Making Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara is simple! Just follow these easy steps to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Jumbo Shells

Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook them al dente so they hold their shape when stuffed. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Filling

While your shells are cooking, prepare the spinach filling. If you’re using fresh spinach, sauté it in olive oil until wilted, then chop it finely. If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out the excess moisture before chopping.

Next, combine the spinach with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Make the Marinara Sauce

For the marinara sauce, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and onion, cooking until softened and fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and salt. Simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can blend the sauce after simmering. Add fresh basil at the end for extra flavor.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Once the shells are cool enough to handle, stuff each one with the spinach mixture. Place them in a baking dish, arranging the shells in a single layer.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are covered evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese turn golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once your Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara are baked to perfection, serve them with a sprinkle of fresh basil or extra Parmesan on top. Enjoy with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Best Spinach-Stuffed Shells

1. Use Fresh Spinach for Extra Flavor

While frozen spinach works in a pinch, fresh spinach will provide a fresher taste and better texture. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the filling.

2. Customize the Filling

If you want to mix things up, consider adding ingredients like sautéed onions, ricotta, or even a bit of nutmeg for a twist on the traditional filling.

3. Make It Ahead of Time

This dish is great for meal prep! You can stuff the shells and prepare the marinara sauce a day ahead. Just cover the baking dish and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

4. Freeze for Later

Want to save some for later? Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara freezes wonderfully. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs About Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara

Can I make this dish without ricotta cheese?

Yes! If you don’t have ricotta cheese or prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute it with tofu or a dairy-free ricotta alternative.

How do I make the marinara sauce from scratch?

Making marinara sauce from scratch is simple. Just sauté garlic and onion in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, season with oregano, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 20 minutes. Fresh basil adds extra flavor.

Can I use another type of pasta for this dish?

While jumbo shells are ideal for stuffing, you could use manicotti or even cannelloni tubes if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I add meat to the spinach filling?

Yes! If you’d like to make this dish non-vegetarian, you can add cooked ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage to the spinach filling for an extra layer of flavor.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To spice up your Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mix in some chili powder to the spinach filling.

Conclusion:

Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Marinara is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you keep it vegetarian or add meat, the creamy spinach filling and tangy marinara sauce create a satisfying meal that you’ll make time and time again. So, why not try making it today?

Your family and friends will thank you for it!