Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells
Big pasta shells stuffed with a creamy spinach mix, smothered in marinara sauce, and baked to bubbly perfection.
Total: 55 minPrep: 20 minCook: 35 minServes 6
Ingredients
Servings:
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells, cooked al dente
- 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
- 2 In a bowl, mix spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- 3 Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach mixture.
- 4 Place stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.
- 5 Pour marinara sauce over the shells.
- 6 Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
- 7 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Calories:
350 kcal
Tips
- Use fresh spinach if you prefer; just sauté until wilted.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling.
- If you love garlic, sauté some minced garlic in olive oil and mix it into the marinara sauce.
- Ensure the shells are al dente before stuffing to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
- Top with extra mozzarella for a cheesier finish.
Storage
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad.
- Pair with garlic bread for a comforting meal.
- Sprinkle with chopped basil before serving.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables for a complete dish.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Try ricotta cheese for a lighter option.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Freeze before baking and add 10-15 minutes to the cook time when reheating from frozen.
What if I don't have jumbo shells?
Manicotti tubes or bell peppers can be a good substitute.
How do I know when the shells are done?
The filling should be bubbly and the cheese melted and slightly golden on top.