Savory Spinach and Sausage-Stuffed Pasta Shells
Indulge in the rich flavors of Savory Spinach and Sausage-Stuffed Pasta Shells, a delightful dish that beautifully combines creamy ricotta cheese with savory pork sausage and nutrient-rich spinach. Perfect for family gatherings or to impress guests, this pasta dish showcases how to elevate simple ingredients into a hearty meal. Baked to golden perfection and topped with a rich marinara sauce, these stuffed shells are not just satisfying but also an excellent way to make meat stretch further while packing in the goodness of greens. Enjoy this comforting dish that warms both the heart and the palate, perfect for any occasion.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
large pasta shells
32 (cooked according to package directions)
bulk pork sausage
1 lb (cooked and drained)
chopped frozen spinach
10 ounces (thawed and drained)
eggs
4 (beaten)
ricotta cheese
2 cups (none)
shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups (divided, for topping)
shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups (divided, for topping)
spaghetti sauce
3 cups (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2
Cook the large pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process; drain again and set aside.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked bulk pork sausage, thawed and drained chopped spinach, beaten eggs, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
4
Using a spoon or a piping bag, generously fill each cooked pasta shell with approximately 3 tablespoons of the sausage and spinach filling.
5
Spread 1 cup of spaghetti sauce evenly across the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the filled pasta shells in the dish in a single layer.
6
Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated.
7
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the sauced shells.
8
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the shells are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9
If desired, let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary flavor profile of Savory Spinach and Sausage-Stuffed Pasta Shells?
The dish features a rich and savory profile combining creamy ricotta, savory pork sausage, and nutrient-rich spinach, topped with a hearty marinara sauce.
How many pasta shells are needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 32 large pasta shells.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
What kind of sausage is best for the filling?
This recipe specifically uses 1 lb of bulk pork sausage, cooked and drained.
Do I need to cook the spinach before adding it to the mix?
You should use frozen chopped spinach that has been thawed and thoroughly drained of excess moisture.
How should the pasta shells be cooked?
Cook the shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente.
Why do I need to rinse the shells in cold water?
Rinsing the shells under cold water stops the cooking process and prevents them from becoming too soft or sticking together.
Which cheeses are included in the filling?
The filling includes 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
What is the purpose of the eggs in the recipe?
The 4 beaten eggs act as a binder to hold the meat and cheese filling together inside the shells.
How much filling should I put in each shell?
Each shell should be generously filled with approximately 3 tablespoons of the sausage and spinach mixture.
How much spaghetti sauce is required in total?
The recipe requires 3 cups of spaghetti sauce.
How do I layer the sauce in the baking dish?
Spread 1 cup of sauce on the bottom of the dish before adding the shells, then pour the remaining 2 cups over the top of the filled shells.
What goes on top of the shells before baking?
Top the sauced shells with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Should I cover the dish while it is in the oven?
Yes, cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning while the shells heat through.
How long does it take to bake the stuffed shells?
Bake for about 30 minutes or until the shells are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Can I use fresh herbs with this dish?
Yes, garnishing with fresh herbs after baking adds an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Is this recipe considered a freezer-friendly meal?
Yes, this dish is tagged as a freezer meal and can be prepared ahead of time.
Can I substitute the pork sausage with something else?
While the recipe calls for pork sausage, you can substitute it with ground turkey or beef if preferred.
How do I ensure the spinach doesn't make the dish watery?
It is crucial to thoroughly drain the thawed spinach to remove as much liquid as possible before mixing it with the cheese.
What kind of cheddar cheese is recommended?
Any shredded cheddar cheese works, though sharp cheddar can add a nice contrast to the creamy ricotta.
What is the best way to fill the shells?
You can use either a simple spoon or a piping bag for more precision when filling the pasta shells.
Is this a good recipe for a large family dinner?
Absolutely, it is a hearty and comforting dish designed for family gatherings.
Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
While ricotta is standard for stuffed shells, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute, though the texture will be slightly different.
How many people does 32 stuffed shells serve?
Depending on appetite, 32 shells typically serve 6 to 8 people.
Should I let the shells cool before serving?
Letting the shells cool slightly for a few minutes helps the filling set, making them easier to serve.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the pork sausage and add more spinach or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
What type of baking dish is best?
A large rectangular glass or ceramic baking dish (such as a 9x13 inch) is ideal for fitting the shells in a single layer.
Is this an Italian-style dish?
Yes, with the use of pasta, marinara, and ricotta, it is an Italian-inspired comfort food.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, but you will need to sauté and drain it first to match the consistency of the 10 ounces of frozen spinach.
Can I add extra spice to the filling?
Yes, adding red pepper flakes or using hot bulk sausage can give the dish a spicy kick.