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Stuffed Shells With Meat Cheese Spinach Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Name: Stuffed Shells With Meat Cheese Spinach Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 3 cups marinara sauce: I often use homemade marinara sauce, bursting with fresh tomatoes and herbs. However, a good quality store-bought option works just as well when time is short.; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds an extra layer of savory flavor without the fuss of chopping garlic.; 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Mouthing "cheeeeeese" is now officially allowed! It brings melty goodness to each bite.; 18 jumbo pasta shells: The larger the shell, the more stuffing it holds. Who doesn’t love that?; 3/4 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy, dreamy ricotta provides a lovely texture that softens the dish beautifully.; 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Dried herbs give flavor without the hassle of washing and cutting fresh ones.; 1 large egg, lightly beaten: This binds the filling together, ensuring that each shell is filled to the brim.; Grated Parmesan cheese: For garnishing and an additional flavor boost, because why not?

Susan Roberts August 12, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 50 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When it comes to a comforting plate of stuffed shells, the possibilities for pairing are endless. Imagine the warmth of a freshly baked garlic bread loaf served alongside, perfectly crisp on the outside, soft on the inside. A simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette could enhance the meal without overwhelming it.

Or picture a glass of your favorite red wine, like Chianti or a smooth merlot, sweetly intertwining with the rich tastes of meat, cheese, and spinach in the shells. These pairings elevate the experience and set the stage for an inviting dinner.

Stuffed Shells With Meat Cheese Spinach Recipe

Hello, fellow kitchen adventurers! Today, we’re diving into a highlight of my culinary repertoire: stuffed shells filled with meat, cheese, and spinach. This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a celebration of flavors that harmonize beautifully.

I’ve shared this meal at countless gatherings, from family Sunday dinners to casual get-togethers with friends. The reactions? Always a chorus of “Mmm!” and requests for seconds.

Why do I cherish this recipe so much? It’s simple yet deeply satisfying. Plus, it brings together ingredients I love, making it a weeknight favorite or a special occasion treat. After you master this recipe, trust me, you’ll find yourself whipping it up on repeat, much like the way you’d gravitate toward your favorite pair of jeans.

Let me take you through the ingredients and my experiences with each one. Trust me; you’ll be inspired to make this dish tonight!

The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful meal:

3 cups marinara sauce: I often use homemade marinara sauce, bursting with fresh tomatoes and herbs. However, a good quality store-bought option works just as well when time is short.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds an extra layer of savory flavor without the fuss of chopping garlic.
1 pound lean ground beef (or your preferred ground meat): Ground turkey or even a meatless alternative can work beautifully here. I’m all about making smart swaps!
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Mouthing “cheeeeeese” is now officially allowed! It brings melty goodness to each bite.
18 jumbo pasta shells: The larger the shell, the more stuffing it holds. Who doesn’t love that?
3/4 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy, dreamy ricotta provides a lovely texture that softens the dish beautifully.
1 (10-oz.) package of frozen chopped spinach: Spinach packs in nutrients and adds an earthy touch. Make sure to squeeze out the moisture for the best results!
2 teaspoons dried oregano: Dried herbs give flavor without the hassle of washing and cutting fresh ones.
1 large egg, lightly beaten: This binds the filling together, ensuring that each shell is filled to the brim.
Grated Parmesan cheese: For garnishing and an additional flavor boost, because why not?

How to Make Stuffed Shells with Meat, Cheese, and Spinach

Now for the fun part! Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it’s hot and ready for those bubbling stuffed shells.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

In a saucepan, warm the marinara sauce over low heat. If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s the time to throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh basil. Let it simmer gently while you move on to the next steps.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. I like to use a wooden spoon to break it apart while it cooks. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat, and add in the garlic powder and oregano, blending everything together for a couple of minutes. It’s all about those flavors mingling!

Step 4: Combine the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat mixture, ricotta cheese, spinach, beaten egg, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix it all together until you get a beautiful, cohesive filling. I usually do this by hand, which feels closer and more personal, you know?

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Grab those jumbo pasta shells! Using a spoon, fill each shell with a generous amount of the meat and cheese mixture. Don’t be shy! Place the filled shells with the open side facing up into a baking dish.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Spread half of the warm marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. It helps prevent the shells from sticking and adds flavor. Then, carefully arrange the stuffed shells in the dish. Once all the shells are snugly in place, pour the remaining marinara sauce on top.

Step 7: Bake

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells and top it all with some grated Parmesan for good measure. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Take a moment to admire your handiwork. It’s a feast for the eyes! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, then garnish with some fresh basil or extra grated Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy.

How to make Stuffed Shells With Meat Cheese Spinach Recipe

Nutrition Information

Recipe Notes

Marinara Sauce: If you opt for homemade, consider using San Marzano tomatoes for a sweeter flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach can be substituted, but you’ll need to sauté it first until wilted, then squeeze out the moisture.
Meat Options: Ground turkey or chicken provides a lighter taste, perfect for those keeping an eye on calories.
Cheeses: Feel free to mix it up—add some ricotta with herbs or use a three-cheese blend for an extra flavor punch.
Eggs: The egg is essential for binding the filling. If you’re Vegan, a flaxseed egg can work as a substitute!
Cooking Time: An extra 5–10 minutes in the oven can make all the difference for achieving that perfect golden-top cheese layer.

Recipe Variations

Got leftover ingredients? You can play with this recipe in so many ways!

Vegetable Variation: Add roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
Cheesy Spin-Off: Mix in other cheeses, such as feta, goat cheese, or cheddar, into your filling for a twist.
Make It Hot: If you enjoy spice, add chopped jalapeños or banana peppers to the filling for a kick.
Sauce Switch-Up: Try Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a creamy variation.
Herbicious Delight: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil to customize the flavor.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells with meat, cheese, and spinach have a special place in my heart. They remind me of family gatherings, laughter filling the air, and the joys of sharing a meal together. This recipe is not only easy but also allows for creativity, making it a perfect project whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef.

I hope this recipe inspires you to step into your kitchen and whip up something that fills your home with delicious aromas. Whether you serve it at a large family gathering or as a cozy weeknight dinner, stuffed shells guarantee satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy the delightful journey of cooking, because the meals created from scratch are the ones we remember most fondly.

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Stuffed Shells With Meat Cheese Spinach Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Author: Susan Roberts Cuisine: Italian Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 50 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 312

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

I’ve shared this meal at countless gatherings, from family Sunday dinners to casual get-togethers with friends. The reactions? Always a chorus of “Mmm!" and requests for seconds.