Stuffed Spinach Shells
Stuffed spinach shells are a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy cheese and spinach mixture, topped with savory ground beef and rich spaghetti sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions and drain.
- Cool the cooked spinach and pour it into a large bowl.
- Add salt, pepper, and ricotta or cottage cheese to the spinach and mix well.
- Fry the ground beef until browned and then stir in the spaghetti sauce.
- Stuff the cheese mixture into each cooked shell.
- Place the stuffed shells in a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Pour the spaghetti sauce over the shells.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, try adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the ricotta mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey or sausage for the beef for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, use store-bought spinach dip instead of creamed spinach. For extra flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the cheese mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed spinach shells with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Italian recipes like a simple marinara sauce or a side of steamed vegetables. For a heartier option, consider serving them alongside My Favorite Meat Ball Appetizer for a delicious Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed spinach shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water or extra sauce, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. They can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Spinach Shells contains roughly 462 calories, with 18g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1551mg per serving (67% 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 make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover the dish tightly with foil. If frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lighter option or even cream cheese if you prefer a richer filling. Just remember to adjust the salt as needed based on the cheese you choose.
How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?
To prevent sticking, toss the cooked shells in a little olive oil after draining. Additionally, make sure they are not overcrowded in the baking dish and use plenty of sauce between layers.
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).