Spinach Jumbo Shells
Creamy spinach stuffed shells feature tender pasta filled with a cheesy spinach mixture, perfect for a comforting vegetarian main dish or impressive family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer spinach for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Drain well and chop.
- Cook onion in butter until tender.
- Add spinach and heat.
- Combine egg, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and spinach mixture.
- Stuff the cooked jumbo shells with the cheese and spinach mixture.
- Cover the stuffed shells with sauce and bake until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the ricotta mixture. If you're short on fresh spinach, frozen spinach works well too; just ensure it's thoroughly drained. You can also swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. For added texture, mix in some cooked mushrooms or artichokes, which are great in vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These Spinach Jumbo Shells are delightful when served with a light salad, such as a Pasta House Company Special Salad And Dressing, to balance the rich filling. A side of garlic bread pairs beautifully, and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top can enhance the presentation. For an Italian-themed meal, consider serving with a glass of white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Jumbo Shells contains roughly 5198 calories, with 13g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 521g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 8g 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just assemble everything, cover tightly, and store for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes, Spinach Jumbo Shells freeze well. Before baking, arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the original baking instructions.
What types of sauces go well with these shells?
A classic marinara sauce complements the spinach and cheese filling beautifully. Alternatively, a creamy Alfredo sauce can add richness. You could also try a simple olive oil and garlic drizzle for a lighter option, making this dish versatile for any palate.
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).