This sausage, spinach, and ricotta stuffed pasta shells recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The juicy sausage, creamy ricotta, and fresh spinach are encased in pasta shells, making every bite more satisfying than the last. It's a family-friendly dish that's also perfect for entertaining guests.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are quite common and you likely have them at home. However, the sweet Italian sausage may need a trip to the butcher's shop if you don't already have it. Same goes for the ricotta cheese; you can find it in the dairy section of any supermarket. Also, opt for a good quality canned tomatoes with herbs for the best result.
Sausage, Spinach, and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells Ingredients
Pasta shells: These are the base of your dish, choose large ones to stuff the filling.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and sausage.
Yellow onion: It adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish.
Sweet Italian sausage: Adds a rich, meaty flavor.
Garlic: Gives the dish a delicious garlic flavor.
Egg: It helps to bind the ricotta filling.
Ricotta cheese: Makes the filling creamy and rich.
Spinach: Used for added nutrition and color.
Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty flavor.
Basil: Gives the dish a fresh, herby taste.
Bread crumbs: Add a little texture to the filling.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat.
Tomatoes with herbs: They make up the delicious sauce that the stuffed shells are baked in.
One reader, Biron Mckeown says:
This sausage, spinach, and ricotta stuffed pasta shells recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is so satisfying. It's a hit with my family every time I make it. The combination of the sausage, spinach, and ricotta is simply divine. It's a must-try!
Techniques Required for Making Sausage, Spinach, and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells
How to cook the pasta shells: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain, rinse in cold water, and set aside.
How to prepare the sausage mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook the onions until softened. Add the sweet Italian sausage, breaking it into smaller bits, and cook until no pink remains. Then, add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Remove the pan from heat.
How to prepare the ricotta and spinach filling: In a large bowl, lightly beat the egg and mix in the ricotta, chopped spinach, ½ cup of parmesan cheese, basil, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and the cooked sausage mixture.
How to stuff the pasta shells: Fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta, spinach, and sausage mixture.
How to bake the stuffed pasta shells: Spread chopped canned tomatoes over the bottom of baking dishes, arrange the stuffed pasta shells, and spread the remaining tomatoes over the top. Cover the pans with foil and bake at 375 degrees F for 30 minutes, then sprinkle with the remaining parmesan cheese and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes.
How To Make Stuffed Pasta Shells
These delicious stuffed pasta shells are loaded with the flavors of sausage, spinach, and ricotta cheese, topped with tomatoes, then baked to perfection!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 12ozpasta shells,(1 jumbo package)
- 1tbspolive oil
- 1cupyellow onion,finely chopped
- 1lbsweet Italian sausage,casings removed
- 1tbspgarlic,minced
- 1large egg
- 16ozricotta cheese
- 10ozspinach,frozen, thawed, squeezed dry, chopped further, or 10 oz chopped fresh spinach
- 1cupparmesan cheese,grated
- 1tbspfresh basil,chopped, or 1 tsp dried basil
- ¼cupbread crumbs,unseasoned
- ½tspsalt
- ½tspground black pepper
- 28oztomatoes with herbs,(1 can) liquid included, tomatoes broken up, or favorite tomato or pasta sauce
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (1 teaspoon salt per quart of water).
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Cook the pasta shells according to the instructions on the package.
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Drain, rinse in cold water and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat.
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Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Add the sausage to the pan, breaking up the sausage into smaller bits. Lower the heat to medium.
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Cook sausage for about 5 minutes until cooked through, and no pink remains.
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Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute more until fragrant.
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Remove pan from heat.
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Beat the egg lightly in a large bowl.
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Mix in the ricotta, chopped spinach, ½ cup of the parmesan cheese, basil, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and sausage mixture.
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Fill each cooked pasta shell with some of the ricotta, spinach, sausage mixture.
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Spread ½ cup of the chopped canned tomatoes over the bottom of each of the baking dishes.
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Arrange the stuffed pasta shells in the dishes. Spread the remaining tomatoes over the top of the pasta shells.
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Heat the oven to 375 degrees F.
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Cover the pans with foil and bake for 30 minutes, until hot and bubbling.
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Remove the foil and sprinkle with the remaining parmesan cheese, then bake uncovered for 10 more minutes.
Recipe Notes
After arranging the stuffed pasta shells, it can be made ahead, and frozen (for up to four months) or refrigerates before cooking. (If freezing, cover with foil, then wrap with plastic wrap.)
Nutrition
- Calories: 486.99kcal
- Fat: 20.41g
- Saturated Fat: 10.25g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.12g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.36g
- Carbohydrates: 45.21g
- Fiber: 3.89g
- Sugar: 5.29g
- Protein: 31.16g
- Cholesterol: 81.82mg
- Sodium: 795.36mg
- Calcium: 423.06mg
- Potassium: 765.98mg
- Iron: 3.19mg
- Vitamin A: 325.30µg
- Vitamin C: 25.54mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Sausage, Spinach, and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells
When filling the pasta shells with the ricotta, spinach, and sausage mixture, use a small spoon or a piping bag for a cleaner and more efficient process. This will ensure each shell is evenly filled and prevent any unnecessary mess. Additionally, when arranging the stuffed shells in the baking dish, make sure they are placed open side up. This will allow the filling to heat thoroughly and the top to get a nice golden brown color during baking.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Stuffed Pasta Shells
Prep ahead: You can prepare the filling and stuff the pasta shells a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. This will save you time on the day of serving.
Use pre-cooked sausage: Consider using pre-cooked sausage to save time on cooking and ensure the filling is ready quickly.
Double the batch: Make a double batch and freeze half for a future meal. This way, you'll have a delicious meal ready to go with minimal effort.
Organize ingredients: Before you start cooking, organize all the ingredients and tools you need. This will help you work more efficiently and save time during the cooking process.
Use a food processor: Consider using a food processor to chop the spinach and mix the filling ingredients quickly and evenly.
Prep the baking dish: Prepare the baking dish while the pasta is cooking to save time. This way, you can immediately transfer the cooked shells to the dish and proceed with the recipe.
Substitute Ingredients For Sausage, Spinach, Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe
pasta shells - Substitute with jumbo pasta shells: Jumbo pasta shells can be used as a substitute for regular pasta shells, providing a larger surface area for stuffing and holding more filling.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions can be used as a substitute for yellow onions, providing a slightly milder flavor while still adding depth to the dish.
sweet italian sausage - Substitute with beyond meat sausage: Beyond Meat sausage offers a plant-based alternative with a similar savory flavor and texture to traditional sweet Italian sausage.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a milder flavor.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg: A flaxseed egg can be used as a vegan substitute for eggs, providing binding properties in the filling mixture.
ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta cheese, offering a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.
spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for spinach, providing a hearty and nutritious green component to the filling.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese offers a similar salty and tangy flavor to Parmesan cheese, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
fresh basil - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for fresh basil, providing a convenient option with a more concentrated flavor.
bread crumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs, offering a lighter and crispier texture when baked.
tomatoes with herbs - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for tomatoes with herbs, providing a convenient alternative with added versatility for seasoning.
How to Beautifully Present Sausage, Spinach, and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells
- Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the stuffed pasta shells on the plate, ensuring each shell is positioned with precision and attention to detail.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few sprigs of fresh basil or parsley over the pasta shells to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
- Drizzle with a balsamic reduction: Create a beautiful design on the plate using a balsamic reduction to add a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish.
- Add a sprinkle of microgreens: Garnish the dish with a delicate sprinkle of microgreens to enhance the visual appeal and add a subtle hint of earthy flavor.
- Serve on a bed of tomato coulis: Create a vibrant base for the pasta shells by carefully spooning a flavorful tomato coulis onto the plate before arranging the stuffed shells.
- Use edible flowers as a garnish: Introduce a touch of elegance by delicately placing edible flowers around the plate to add a visually stunning element to the presentation.
- Incorporate a parmesan crisp: Place a parmesan crisp alongside the stuffed pasta shells for a textural contrast and an elegant, gourmet touch to the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stuffed Pasta Shells
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta shells.
- Skillet: Used for cooking the sausage, onions, and garlic.
- Baking dishes: For arranging and baking the stuffed pasta shells.
- Large bowl: To mix the ricotta, spinach, sausage mixture, and other ingredients.
- Foil: To cover the baking dishes while baking the stuffed pasta shells.
- Oven: For baking the stuffed pasta shells.
- Colander: To drain and rinse the cooked pasta shells.
- Food processor: Optional for chopping the spinach and onions.
- Mixing spoon: For stirring and mixing the ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping and preparing the ingredients.
- Spatula: For spreading the tomatoes and removing the stuffed pasta shells from the baking dishes.
Storing and Freezing Stuffed Pasta Shells for Later
- Let the stuffed shells cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled stuffed shells in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the stuffed shells, follow these steps:
- Place the cooled stuffed shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they aren't touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the stuffed shells are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen stuffed shells to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen stuffed shells will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- To reheat refrigerated stuffed shells, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
- For frozen stuffed shells, you can either thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed above, or bake them directly from frozen. If baking from frozen, increase the baking time to 45-60 minutes, or until the stuffed shells are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How To Reheat Leftover Stuffed Pasta Shells
To reheat leftover sausage, spinach, and ricotta stuffed pasta shells, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shells in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
Another option is to reheat the stuffed shells in the microwave. Place a few shells on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the shells to become rubbery.
For a crispy top, you can also reheat the stuffed shells under the broiler. Place the shells on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
If you have a lot of leftover stuffed shells, consider freezing them for later. To do this, place the shells in a freezer-safe container and cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw the shells in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat using one of the methods above.
To add extra flavor and moisture to your reheated stuffed shells, consider adding a dollop of fresh ricotta cheese or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top before serving. You can also serve them with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Interesting Trivia About Sausage, Spinach, and Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells
The pasta shells in this recipe can be substituted with other types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, for a different texture and presentation.
Budget-Friendly: Making Stuffed Pasta Shells at Home
This sausage, spinach, and ricotta stuffed pasta shells recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as pasta shells, sweet Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, spinach, and canned tomatoes, are generally affordable and readily available. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and budget-friendly option for a family meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of cost and taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it a reasonable choice for a delicious and filling dinner.
Is This Stuffed Pasta Shell Recipe Healthy or Not?
The sausage, spinach, and ricotta stuffed pasta shells recipe is a delicious and comforting dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The recipe uses sweet Italian sausage, which is high in saturated fat and sodium.
- Ricotta cheese is also high in saturated fat, although it does provide some protein and calcium.
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of Parmesan cheese, which adds to the overall fat and sodium content.
- The dish is baked with a generous amount of tomato sauce, which may contain added sugars and sodium, depending on the brand used.
However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as spinach, which is rich in vitamins and minerals, and the use of whole grain pasta shells can increase the fiber content.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Opt for lean Italian turkey sausage instead of regular pork sausage to reduce the saturated fat content.
- Use part-skim ricotta cheese to lower the fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture.
- Reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese used, or choose a low-sodium variety.
- Make your own tomato sauce using fresh, low-sodium ingredients to control the sugar and salt content.
- Increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient content.
- Use whole grain pasta shells to increase the fiber content and provide a more balanced meal.
Editor's Opinion on This Stuffed Pasta Shell Recipe
The combination of savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and vibrant spinach in the stuffed pasta shells recipe creates a delightful and satisfying dish. The flavors are well-balanced, and the use of fresh herbs adds a lovely aromatic touch. The addition of breadcrumbs provides a delightful texture, and the final sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a delicious finishing touch. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful choice for a comforting and hearty meal.
Enhance Your Sausage, Spinach, Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Sausage, Spinach, Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, and spinach, creating a rich and flavorful filling for the pasta shells. The use of fresh basil and garlic enhances the aromatic profile, while the addition of parmesan cheese and tomatoes with herbs brings depth to the dish. The careful layering and baking process ensures a satisfying and comforting meal. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the thoughtful preparation to deliver a delicious and wholesome dining experience.
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