Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells – A Healthy Veggie Dinner 🥗🧀🌱
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a Healthy Dinner Quick recipe that combines deliciousness with nutrition, look no further than our Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This recipe is perfect for dinners with no meat and can be effortlessly prepared for busy weeknights. Packed with wholesome ingredients like fresh spinach and creamy ricotta, these stuffed shells are not only yummy but also align with healthier dinners options. Whether you’re a student seeking easy student meal ideas or someone looking for Lazy Dinners Healthy options, this dish fits all your criteria.
2. Ingredient List
- 20 large pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 jar marinara sauce (preferably low-sugar)
For convenience, consider using a baked chicken parmesan for pairing or keep some garlic parmesan chicken pasta on hand for a more hearty meal.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Preparation of the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the large pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside. For a hassle-free cooking experience, you might want to use a Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master to chop ingredients swiftly.
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach and garlic with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure a creamy and flavorful filling.
Stuff the Shells
With a spoon, carefully fill each cooked shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the shells. For added flavor, sprinkle some extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. You can also utilize a Ninja Mega Kitchen Power System to prepare sides or sauce quickly, making this an even more efficient Healthy Dinner Quick option.
4. Storage Tips for Leftovers
Store leftover spinach and ricotta stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through. For extra convenience, consider JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set to keep your leftovers fresh.
5. Serving Suggestions for a Complete and Yummy Meal
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a Fall Meals Dinners Healthy touch. For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or a drizzle of olive oil on top. For a more fulfilling Non Meat Dinner Ideas experience, serve with crispy baked chicken tenders or a homemade soup from our collection such as the Mystical Witch Soup.
6. Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition. You can also customize the cheese mix by adding feta or ricotta alternatives for different tastes. For busy nights, use a Crock-Pot to assemble and slow-cook this dish for a hands-free, nutritious meal.
7. Why Choose This Healthy Dinner Recipe?
Our Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe is not just quick and easy to prepare, but also aligns with a Healthy Dinner Quick plan. It offers a great way to include greens into your meal while satisfying your comfort food cravings. Perfectly suitable for dinners with no meat or even as part of a broader collection of Yummy Meal Ideas.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I prepare these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake when ready for an easy, Lazy Dinners Healthy meal.
What are some healthy alternatives for the cheese?
If you’re watching your calorie intake, try using part-skim ricotta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor with less fat. You can also explore vegan cheese options for a dairy-free, plant-based Non Meat Dinner Ideas.
Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Freeze the assembled shells in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when needed.
9. Conclusion
In summary, Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a perfect choice for anyone seeking a Healthy Dinner Quick. This recipe combines nutritious ingredients with ease of preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy fall meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or family, this dish offers a delightful dinner idea that aligns with your goal of eating healthier and enjoying tasty, veggie-packed meals. Give it a try and savor the goodness of this cheesy, nutritious, and utterly satisfying comfort food.
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Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells – A Healthy Veggie Dinner
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delicious and healthy veggie dinner with our Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells. Packed with fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and flavorful cheese, this dish is perfect for quick, nutritious, and meat-free meals that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 jar marinara sauce (preferably low-sugar)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
- In a bowl, combine cooked spinach and garlic with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture and arrange in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, sprinkle with additional cheese if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Prep shells ahead of time and assemble just before baking for convenience.
- Customize with added vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Use part-skim cheese or vegan alternatives to make it vegan or lower in calories.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian