Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsPesto's Italian Kitchen & Wine BarSpinach Stuffed Shells Recipe

Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe

Time1h
Serves6

Spinach and Ricotta | Marinara | Mozzarella

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Ingredients

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Stuffed Shells

Method

Preparing the Stuffed Shells

  1. 1

    Cook the Pasta

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Filling

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Making the Marinara Sauce

  1. 3

    Sauté Garlic

    In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

  2. 4

    Simmer the Sauce

    Add canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assembling the Dish

  1. 5

    Fill the Shells

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a spoonful of the spinach and ricotta mixture and carefully fill each cooked pasta shell. Place the stuffed shells in a 9x13 inch baking dish.

  2. 6

    Add the Sauce

    Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.

  3. 7

    Top with Mozzarella

    Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce, covering the shells completely.

Baking

  1. 8

    Bake the Dish

    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

  2. 9

    Garnish and Serve

    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving.

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