Spinach And Feta Cheese-Stuffed Pasta Shells
Creamy spinach and feta-stuffed pasta shells baked in marinara sauce offer a flavorful, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Squeeze excess moisture from the thawed spinach and transfer it to a large bowl.
- Add ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, feta cheese, chopped basil, and minced garlic to the bowl.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste and blend well.
- Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Fill each cooked pasta shell with the spinach mixture and place them, filling side up, in the dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the filled shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for about 30 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or substituting the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option. You can also use fresh spinach instead of frozen if you prefer. For a twist, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the filling. Ensure the pasta shells are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed pasta shells are delightful when served with a side salad or garlic bread. A light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil can elevate the presentation. For a complete meal, pair with a glass of white wine. This dish also pairs beautifully with Cheese Lover'S White Pizza for a hearty Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for about 2-3 minutes until heated through. Freezing is also an option; just be sure to cover tightly and consume within 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Feta Cheese-Stuffed Pasta Shells contains roughly 248 calories, with 10g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1670mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
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! Just sauté about 1 pound of fresh spinach until wilted, then follow the same preparation steps as for frozen spinach. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture before mixing with the cheeses.
Can I prepare these shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the shells in the baking dish and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few more minutes to the baking time if they are chilled.
What can I substitute for the marinara sauce?
If you prefer, you can use a homemade tomato sauce or even a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile. For a lighter option, consider a simple olive oil and garlic sauce. Explore variations like adding pesto for an herbal twist!
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).