Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells Delicious and Simple Dish
Are you ready to impress your family with a dish that’s both simple and delicious? Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are a perfect choice. This recipe is loaded with creamy cheese and vibrant spinach, packed into jumbo pasta shells. I’ll guide you through every step, from gathering ingredients to baking the perfect shell. Let’s dive in and make a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Ingredient Measurements
Each ingredient plays a key role in the dish. The jumbo pasta shells hold the filling well. Fresh spinach adds a nice green color and healthy touch. Ricotta cheese gives a creamy texture. Shredded mozzarella adds gooey goodness. Grated Parmesan brings a salty bite. The beaten egg helps bind the filling together. Garlic and onion powders add flavor, while salt and pepper enhance all these tastes. Marinara sauce gives a rich base. Finally, fresh basil adds a burst of freshness.
Suggested Substitutions
If you cannot find jumbo shells, use manicotti or even cannelloni. For a twist, swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard. Cottage cheese can replace ricotta if needed. You can use any cheese you like instead of mozzarella. Try adding feta for a tangy taste. If you want a vegan dish, use tofu instead of ricotta and skip the egg. Lastly, any pasta sauce will work if you do not have marinara.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add a good amount of salt to the water. Once the water is boiling, add 12 jumbo pasta shells. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. After cooking, drain the shells and let them cool. Make sure they do not stick together.
Preparing the Spinach Cheese Filling
In a big mixing bowl, combine the spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add in the beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything well. The filling should be creamy and smooth.
Stuffing the Pasta Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a spoon or a piping bag to fill each shell with the spinach and cheese mixture. Be careful to fill them well but do not let the filling overflow.
Assembling the Dish
Take a baking dish and spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Lay the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Drizzle the remaining marinara sauce on top of the shells. Then, sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese over everything.
Baking the Stuffed Shells
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. After this, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. This will make the cheese bubbly and slightly golden.
Garnishing and Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let the dish cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This adds color and a nice touch of flavor. Serve your stuffed shells warm and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Stuffed Shells
To make your stuffed shells stand out, use fresh ingredients. Fresh spinach adds a bright taste. Mix your filling well. Each bite should burst with flavor. Make sure your shells are cooked al dente. This helps them hold their shape. When stuffing, don’t overfill. Leave a little space to avoid spills. Lastly, let the dish rest before serving. This helps the flavors mingle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using old pasta shells. They can break easily. Don’t skip the salt in the pasta water. It adds flavor to the shells. Watch the baking time closely. Overbaking can lead to dry shells. If you use too much sauce, it can make the shells soggy. Keep the filling balanced. Too much cheese can overpower the spinach.
Making Ahead for Meal Prep
You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance. Stuff the shells and place them in the baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, add a few extra minutes to the baking time. You can also freeze the stuffed shells. Just make sure to wrap them well. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking. This makes meal prep easy and quick.
Variations
Adding Protein Options
You can add protein to your cheesy spinach stuffed shells. Ground beef, turkey, or chicken work well. Cook the meat in a pan until brown. Mix it into the spinach and cheese filling. This adds flavor and makes the dish heartier. For a tasty twist, try adding cooked sausage. It adds great spice to each bite.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
If you want a vegan version, swap the cheeses. Use a plant-based ricotta or tofu instead. You can blend silken tofu with nutritional yeast and garlic for a creamy texture. For cheese flavor, add vegan mozzarella shreds. Use aquafaba instead of the egg to bind the filling. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious without dairy.
Alternative Sauces
You can change up the sauce for your stuffed shells. Instead of marinara, try a creamy Alfredo sauce. This gives the dish a rich flavor. A pesto sauce also adds a fresh, herby taste. If you like spice, use a spicy arrabbiata sauce. Each sauce change creates a new experience while keeping the filling the same.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your cheesy spinach stuffed shells fresh, let them cool first. Place any leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Bake for about 20 minutes or until hot. You can also microwave them for a quick option. Just cover them with a microwave-safe lid and heat for 2-3 minutes.
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage
If you want to freeze the stuffed shells, prepare them as usual but do not bake them. Place the filled shells in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Be sure to label the bag with the date. They will last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of jumbo shells?
Yes, you can use regular pasta. However, jumbo shells hold the filling better. If you choose regular pasta, try using lasagna sheets or manicotti. They can also work well for stuffing.
How do I prevent stuffed shells from sticking together?
To prevent sticking, add salt to the boiling water. Stir the shells gently while cooking. After draining, spread them out on a baking sheet. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil over them. This keeps them from clumping.
What to serve with Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells?
These shells pair well with a simple green salad. You can also serve garlic bread alongside them. A light drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds nice flavor. For drinks, a crisp white wine nicely complements the dish.
How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
You can keep leftovers in the fridge for about three to four days. Store them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. This way, they can last for up to three months.
You learned how to make cheesy spinach stuffed shells today. We covered ingredients, measurements, and substitutions. You know the steps for cooking and baking the dish. I shared tips for perfecting the shells and avoiding common mistakes. Plus, you explored variations with protein, vegan options, and sauces.
Remember to store and reheat leftovers the right way. Happy cooking, and enjoy your tasty meal!
![- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) - 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and diced into small cubes - 1 red bell pepper, diced into small pieces - 1 small red onion, finely chopped - 1 jalapeño, deseeded and minced (adjust for spice preference) - Juice of 1 fresh lime - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) For this jerk chicken with pineapple salsa recipe, use chicken thighs for their rich flavor. The jerk seasoning adds a spicy and smoky kick. The pineapple and vegetables bring freshness and sweetness to the dish. - Adjust spice levels: If you want less heat, skip the jalapeño or use less jerk seasoning. - Additional garnishes: Lime wedges and extra cilantro make great toppings. You can also add avocado for creaminess. Feel free to customize these ingredients according to your taste. The key is to balance heat, sweetness, and freshness. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. Start by mixing the chicken thighs with jerk seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to coat each piece well. This step is key for flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight gives the best taste. In a clean bowl, combine diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño. Squeeze the juice of one lime over it and add a pinch of salt. Stir gently to mix. Let this salsa rest for at least 15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to blend nicely. Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any extra drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it is fully cooked and safe to eat. Arrange the grilled jerk chicken on a platter. Spoon the bright pineapple salsa over the top. For a finishing touch, sprinkle fresh cilantro on the dish. You can also serve it on a rustic wooden board with lime wedges and extra pineapple chunks. This adds a fun, tropical vibe to your meal. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. The key to great jerk chicken is marinating well. Many people rush this step, but a good marinating time is essential. Aim for at least one hour, or overnight if you can. This allows the chicken to soak up the flavors deeply. Common mistakes to avoid: - Skipping the marinade: This makes the chicken bland. - Using too much heat: Jerk seasoning has a kick. Balance it with other flavors. - Not resting the chicken: Skipping this step makes the meat dry. Flavor enhancements: - Add some lime zest to your marinade for extra tang. - Try a bit of honey for a hint of sweetness. - Use smoked paprika for a deeper, richer flavor. The salsa adds brightness to the dish. Choosing ripe pineapples is key to great flavor. Tips for selecting ripe pineapples: - Look for pineapples with a sweet smell at the base. - The skin should be golden and slightly firm. - Press gently; it should give just a little. Variations for additional flavor: - Add diced mango for extra sweetness. - Mix in some chopped mint for a fresh twist. - Try a dash of cumin for a warm, earthy note. These tips will help you create a jerk chicken dish that shines. Don't forget to check out the Full Recipe for more details! {{image_4}} You can swap chicken for other meats. Try pork or turkey. Both soak up jerk flavor well. If you prefer seafood, shrimp or fish works too. Just keep an eye on cooking times. Seafood cooks quickly, so grill it for just a few minutes. Feel free to play with the vegetables. You can use different peppers like green or yellow. Red onions are great, but sweet onions add a nice touch too. Want to mix it up? Add diced mango or avocado to the salsa. Fresh herbs like mint or basil can add fun flavors too. For gluten-free options, check your jerk seasoning. Make sure it has no gluten. You can enjoy jerk chicken without any worries. If you're looking for low-carb choices, skip the sugar in the salsa. You can also serve the chicken with a salad instead of rice. This keeps it fresh and light. To store leftovers, place the jerk chicken in an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. This helps keep it fresh longer. Jerk chicken can stay in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it in the oven or on the grill. Heat it to 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. Avoid reheating in the microwave if you want crispy skin. Yes, you can freeze jerk chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. For thawing, move the chicken to the fridge overnight. If you need it fast, you can also use the microwave on the defrost setting. After thawing, make sure to heat it well before serving. This keeps it tasty and safe to eat. For the full recipe, visit the [Full Recipe]. I suggest marinating the chicken for at least one hour. For the best flavor, try to marinate overnight. This allows the jerk seasoning to soak in deeply, making the chicken tasty and juicy. Jerk chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Some great options are: - Rice and peas - Grilled vegetables - Coleslaw - Fried plantains - Cornbread These sides balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Yes, you can make the salsa ahead of time. I recommend preparing it a few hours before serving. This gives the salsa time to rest. The flavors will mix better, making it even more delicious. Jerk seasoning has a unique and bold flavor. It combines heat from peppers, sweetness from spices, and a hint of smokiness. Common ingredients include allspice, thyme, and garlic. This mix creates a savory and vibrant taste. The spice level of jerk chicken can vary. It depends on the amount of jalapeño you use. If you want less heat, remove the seeds. For more spice, add extra jalapeño or a hotter pepper. Adjusting the seasoning lets you enjoy the dish at your preferred heat level. You learned about making jerk chicken with easy steps and key ingredients. Focus on marinating the chicken and crafting the pineapple salsa for the best flavor. Enjoy grilling techniques to get that perfect char. Remember to avoid common mistakes while cooking. You can also try different proteins and flavor swaps for variety. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. Your jerk chicken can impress anyone at the table. Now, it’s time to put this knowledge to use and enjoy your delicious creation!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/27cc5104-89a5-4e73-8f97-3d018bc709fa-768x768.webp)
![- 300g spaghetti - 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil - Zest and juice of 1 lemon - 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped - Salt, to taste - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved The key to making Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is simplicity. You need just a few fresh items. Start with the spaghetti. It’s the heart of this dish. I recommend using high-quality spaghetti for the best texture. Garlic is next. Always slice it thinly. This way, it releases flavor quickly. The red pepper flakes add heat. You can adjust this to make it more or less spicy, depending on your taste. Extra-virgin olive oil is vital. It carries the garlic flavor and adds richness. The lemon zest and juice bring a bright note. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. For optional toppings, consider salt for seasoning. Parmesan cheese adds a nice creaminess. Cherry tomatoes are great if you want a pop of sweetness. They also add color to your plate. For the full recipe, visit the section above. Enjoy making this classic dish with these simple ingredients! 1. Fill a large pot with water and add salt. 2. Bring the water to a rolling boil. 3. Add 300g of spaghetti to the pot. 4. Cook until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes. 5. Before draining, save 1 cup of the pasta water. 6. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside. 1. In a large skillet, pour in 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil. 2. Heat the oil over medium flame. 3. Thinly slice 6 cloves of garlic and add them to the oil. 4. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring often. 5. Stop cooking when the garlic turns golden, but not burnt. 1. Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the skillet. 2. Stir in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. 3. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften. 4. Gently add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. 5. Mix well to coat the pasta in the garlic oil. 6. Add the zest and juice of 1 lemon. 7. If it looks dry, add some reserved pasta water. 8. Mix in half of the chopped parsley. 9. Taste and season with salt as needed. Enjoy your flavorful Spaghetti Aglio e Olio! For the full details, check the [Full Recipe]. To ensure your Spaghetti Aglio e Olio shines, start with the red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like your food. If you want a mild kick, use less. For a fiery burst, add more. Next, the olive oil is key. Choose high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for better taste. The flavor difference is notable. It brings richness that enhances the whole dish. When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye. Garlic can burn quickly, and burnt garlic tastes bitter. Stir it often and cook it just until golden. This gives your dish a lovely flavor. Don’t forget to reserve that pasta water! It’s like liquid gold for your sauce. If your sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the pasta water. It helps create the perfect creamy texture. Serve your spaghetti in shallow bowls. This makes it look fancy and inviting. Top it with extra parsley for a pop of color. A drizzle of olive oil on top adds shine. Lemon wedges on the side invite guests to add a fresh burst. This little touch elevates the dish, making it even more enjoyable. {{image_4}} You can make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio even better. One simple way is to add sautéed spinach or kale. This boosts the dish’s nutrients. You can also mix in cooked shrimp or chicken to add protein. Both options make your meal heartier and more satisfying. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta. It works well and tastes great. For a fresh twist, use lemon zest or herbs like basil. This adds a new layer of flavor to your dish. You can easily switch up the taste based on what you like. Want to give your spaghetti a global touch? Add a splash of soy sauce for an Asian influence. It changes the flavor profile in a fun way. You can also experiment with fresh herbs, like oregano. These small changes can transform your Spaghetti Aglio e Olio into a unique dish that excites your palate. After you enjoy your spaghetti, store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Refrigerate it right away and consume within 3 days for the best taste. When you're ready to eat again, reheat on the stovetop. Just add a splash of reserved pasta water to keep it moist. This method helps maintain the pasta's texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pasta rubbery. If you want to save some for later, freeze the spaghetti without toppings. It stays good for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This keeps the flavors intact. For the full recipe, check out the complete details. "Aglio e Olio" is Italian for "garlic and oil." This dish shines with just these two key ingredients. The garlic adds a rich, bold flavor. The olive oil serves as a smooth base, bringing everything together. It’s simple yet so satisfying. Yes, you can easily make it vegan. Just skip the Parmesan cheese. Use a good olive oil and make sure it's pure. You can also add more vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms. This keeps the dish fresh and filling without dairy. To add protein, you have many tasty choices. Cooked chicken or shrimp works well. For a vegan option, try chickpeas or tofu. Just sauté them along with the garlic. They will soak up all the great flavors. Absolutely! Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is great for meal prep. You can cook it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just keep the sauce separate if you can. This way, you can heat it up and enjoy it fresh later. This blog outlined a simple yet tasty Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. We covered ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. Remember, adjust spices and add toppings to make it your own. You can even include proteins or veggies for variety. Storing and reheating the dish correctly keeps it fresh and delicious. So dive into this easy recipe and enjoy its flavors. It's a quick meal you can customize however you like. Happy cooking!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/f6e5d00b-504d-4d52-a053-c2bbef60ee08-768x768.webp)
![- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - 1/4 cup honey - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper - Salt, to taste - Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds For this recipe, I focus on fresh ingredients. The chicken thighs give a rich flavor. Honey and garlic bring sweetness and zest. Soy sauce adds depth, while apple cider vinegar provides a nice tang. Extra virgin olive oil keeps everything moist and tasty. I love the hint of ginger in this dish. It adds a warm note that enhances the glaze. The black pepper gives a slight kick, balancing the sweetness. For the finishing touch, green onions and sesame seeds add color and crunch. These ingredients work together to create a delightful meal. You can find the full recipe for Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs at the end of this article. Enjoy cooking! In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, grated ginger, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This marinade is the key to great flavor. Next, place the chicken thighs in a large zip-lock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though overnight is best for deep flavor. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat ensures a crispy skin. Remove the chicken from the marinade, saving some for later. Place the chicken skin-side up on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-35 minutes. The chicken is ready when its internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. To get that perfect crispy skin, you need to start with dry chicken. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture. Also, make sure your oven is hot before baking. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken skin-side up on a lined baking tray. This position allows the skin to crisp up nicely. Finally, don't cover the chicken while it bakes. This keeps the skin exposed to the heat for better crispiness. Marinating time is key for flavor. I recommend at least one hour for good taste. If you have time, let the chicken marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to soak in deeply. Use a zip-lock bag for easy marinating. Just remember to seal it well, so the marinade doesn’t leak. A longer marinating time helps tenderize the meat, making it juicy and flavorful. For the glaze, you want a syrupy texture. After baking, take the leftover marinade and heat it in a saucepan. Simmer it over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. The goal is to reduce the liquid until it thickens. This will create a lovely glaze that clings to the chicken. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it. {{image_4}} You can easily boost flavor with fresh herbs. Use rosemary, thyme, or parsley. Chop them finely and mix them into the marinade. This adds a vibrant taste that pairs well with the honey and garlic. Fresh herbs also add a nice pop of color to your dish. Just remember to adjust the amount based on your taste. For a kick, add red pepper flakes into your marinade. Start with a pinch and taste as you go. This small change can take your dish from sweet to spicy. The heat balances well with the honey's sweetness. Serve with a side of cooling yogurt or sour cream to tame the spice. It creates a fun contrast. Grilling gives this dish a smoky flavor that is hard to beat. Before grilling, marinate the chicken as usual. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Cook the thighs skin-side down for the first few minutes. Flip them for an even char. Use the reserved marinade to baste while grilling. This method ensures a tasty glaze that sticks to the chicken. Enjoy the delicious, crispy skin with that smoky flavor! For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To keep your honey garlic glazed chicken thighs fresh, store them promptly. Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container. This will help keep the flavors intact. Be sure to eat the leftovers within three to four days for the best taste and safety. To freeze your chicken thighs, first let them cool completely. Wrap each thigh tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps avoid freezer burn. You can keep them frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for best results. To reheat chicken thighs, use the oven to keep them juicy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. This will trap steam and keep the meat moist. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is warm. Enjoy the great taste all over again! For more details, check the Full Recipe. For the best flavor, you should marinate chicken thighs for at least 1 hour. But if you can, marinate them overnight. This allows the flavors to soak deep into the meat. A longer marination time helps the chicken become tender and full of taste. Yes, you can use other cuts of chicken. Chicken breasts work well, but they may dry out faster. If you prefer, you can also use bone-in chicken legs. These alternatives will still absorb the honey garlic flavor, making your dish just as tasty. You can pair this dish with many sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed rice or jasmine rice - Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or carrots - A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette - Mashed potatoes for a creamy side - Quinoa for a healthy grain option These sides will complement the savory taste of the chicken and make your meal more satisfying. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe] section. This blog post covered how to make delicious Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and helpful tips for the best results. We also explored tasty variations and safe storage advice. Enjoying this dish can add flavor to your meals. Whether you choose to grill it or try a spicy twist, these chicken thighs will impress. Keep experimenting, and make this recipe your own!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/b9cba3e0-ee7f-4dbf-9eac-9b8411a1c4fd-768x768.webp)
