Jumbo Shells(Spinach And Ricotta Filling)
Creamy spinach and ricotta stuffed jumbo shells baked in savory spaghetti sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests craving comforting Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach and drain well.
- Squeeze excess moisture out of the spinach.
- In a skillet, cook chopped onion in butter until just tender.
- Add cooked spinach to the skillet and cook for a moment.
- In a bowl, mix beaten eggs, ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and the spinach mixture.
- Stuff the cooked jumbo shells with the cheese and spinach filling.
- Pour spaghetti sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the filling, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like basil and oregano. If you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to prevent a watery filling. For a creamier texture, mix in some cream cheese. This dish is perfect for preparing ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these jumbo shells with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional parmesan cheese on top can add a lovely touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Penne And Chicken Di Genoa for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For best results, avoid microwaving, as it can make the shells rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jumbo Shells(Spinach And Ricotta Filling) contains roughly 516 calories, with 12g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. You'll need about 10 ounces, and you should sauté it until wilted before draining and squeezing out the moisture. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant flavor and texture to the filling.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the wrap, add sauce, and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights.
What can I serve with jumbo shells?
These shells go well with a light arugula salad or roasted vegetables. For a hearty meal, consider serving alongside a classic Italian dish like Lasagne(8 To 10 Servings). A glass of red wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).