Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Basil Vodka Sauce
Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Basil Vodka Sauce is a comforting Italian dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, all nestled within large pasta shells and smothered in a rich basil vodka sauce. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or when you want to impress guests with a delicious homemade meal. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it an instant favorite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 stuffed shells per serving) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 ½ cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 6 oz fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups basil vodka sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Boil salted water in a large pot; cook pasta shells until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff each shell with about two tablespoons of the mixture and place them seam-side up in the prepared dish.
- Pour basil vodka sauce over the stuffed shells; sprinkle additional Parmesan on top if desired.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg