Steven'S Stuffed Spinach Shells
A comforting baked pasta dish featuring jumbo shells filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, topped with tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spinach according to package directions; drain thoroughly.
- Cook jumbo shells according to package directions; drain and cover with cold water.
- Combine cooked spinach, drained cottage cheese, egg whites, shredded Mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stuff the spinach and cheese mixture into each cooked shell.
- Place the stuffed shells in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the shells with tomato sauce.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes or until bubbling and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of ricotta cheese or a dollop of sour cream to the spinach mixture. If you have fresh spinach, you can substitute it for frozen; just use about 10 ounces and sauté it until wilted. For extra flavor, mix in Italian herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a lighter version, use part-skim mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed shells are delightful on their own but can be complemented by a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A drizzle of extra tomato sauce on top before serving enhances the flavors. For those who enjoy a hearty dish, serve alongside Cubed Steaks Parmesan for an Italian-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steven'S Stuffed Spinach Shells contains roughly 382 calories, with 37g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (74% of the Daily Value), calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 914mg per serving (40% 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 prepare the stuffed shells in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead. Just refrigerate them in the baking dish covered with foil. When ready to bake, allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing them in the oven.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled shells before baking. Just ensure they are well-covered with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta is a fantastic substitute that will give a similar creamy texture. You could also try using Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor while keeping the dish healthy. Just ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
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).