Craving a comforting meal that’s quick and easy? Stuffed Shells Florentine is the answer! This creamy dish combines fresh spinach and rich cheeses all in a perfect pasta shell. I promise this delightful recipe will impress your family or guests without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this dish that’s both delicious and satisfying!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy cheeses and fresh spinach creates a rich, savory filling that is simply irresistible.
- Simple Preparation: Despite looking impressive, these stuffed shells are easy to prepare and require minimal cooking skills.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for quick dinners on busy nights.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy shells, making it a great choice for family meals.
Ingredients
To make Stuffed Shells Florentine, you need fresh and simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll use:
– 20 large pasta shells
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a tasty and comforting dish. Each one plays a role in flavor and texture. The pasta shells hold the filling, while the cheeses add creaminess. Spinach brings freshness and color. The marinara sauce ties it all together with a rich taste.
Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. I always choose the best spinach and cheeses I can find. This ensures my dish is not just good, but great. Plus, the fresh basil at the end gives a nice touch. You can mix and match these ingredients too. Want more cheese? Go for it! Prefer another herb? Add it!
Have fun with these ingredients, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your stuffed shells bake perfectly.
Cooking the Pasta
Next, boil a large pot of salted water. Add 20 large pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Using salted water gives the pasta flavor. After cooking, drain the shells and let them cool for a bit.
Preparing the Filling
In a big bowl, mix 2 cups of chopped spinach with 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, and half of the 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Add 1 beaten egg, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well combined.
Stuffing the Shells
Now, grab your cooked shells. Using a spoon or your hands, carefully fill each shell with the cheesy spinach mix. Make sure to fill them evenly. This helps each bite taste great!
Assembling the Dish
Grab a large baking dish and spread half of the 2 cups of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the stuffed shells on top of this sauce. Pour the rest of the marinara sauce over the shells.
Baking the Stuffed Shells
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake the shells in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. This makes the cheese bubbly and golden.
Garnishing and Serving
After baking, take the dish out and let it cool for a few minutes. To make it look nice, add fresh basil leaves on top. This adds flavor and color to your dish!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Perfect Pasta Shells
* To avoid breakage, use a gentle touch. Stir the shells gently while cooking.
* Use salted water for better flavor. This step makes a big difference.
* Cook the shells for about 9-11 minutes. This timing gives you al dente pasta, which is firm but not hard.
Enhancing the Flavor
* Add spices like crushed red pepper for a kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano work great too.
* If you want cheese substitutes, try goat cheese or a vegan option. They bring unique flavors to the dish.
Making Ahead
* You can prepare stuffed shells a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge before baking.
* To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes. This keeps them moist and tasty.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and flavor to the dish. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique flavor profile. This can elevate the taste of your stuffed shells.
- Make Ahead: These stuffed shells can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble them and store in the refrigerator. Bake right before serving for a quick meal.
- Bake Covered, Then Uncovered: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. Remove the foil to allow the cheese to bubble and get golden.
Variations
Meat Lover’s Stuffed Shells
You can easily make stuffed shells for meat lovers. Just add cooked ground meat, like beef or turkey, to the cheese filling. This adds a hearty flavor and makes the dish more filling. You can mix the meat with the spinach and cheese for a rich taste. The flavor profile changes when you add meat. It becomes savory and bold, perfect for those who enjoy a protein boost.
Vegetarian Options
For a vegetarian twist, you can change the filling. Instead of cheese, use non-dairy options like hummus or mashed beans. You can also add other veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. This makes a tasty and colorful dish. The flavors will be fresh and bright. The goal is to keep it balanced and delicious, giving everyone a chance to enjoy stuffed shells.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta shells. Many brands offer great choices that taste good. You can follow the same cooking steps but check the package for details. Adjust the cooking time if needed. This way, everyone can join in on this yummy meal, no matter their dietary needs.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To store your leftover stuffed shells, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. You can also cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. The stuffed shells will last in the fridge for up to three days. If you don’t eat them within this time, they may spoil.
Freezing Stuffed Shells
You can freeze stuffed shells for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container. You can also use a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. When you want to eat them, thaw the shells in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Check that they are heated through.
Meal Prep Tips
Batch preparing stuffed shells is a great idea for busy days. You can make a large batch ahead of time. Store them in single-serving containers. This way, you can easily grab one when you need a meal. Glass containers work best, as they are safe for the oven and microwave. Plus, they help keep your food fresh longer.
FAQs
How do I make Stuffed Shells Florentine without cheese?
You can make stuffed shells without cheese by using alternatives. Try using mashed tofu or cashew cream. Both provide a creamy texture without dairy. You can also add more spinach for flavor and texture.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought marinara sauce. Look for brands with simple ingredients. I recommend brands like Rao’s or Classico. They offer rich flavors and quality that enhance your dish.
How long can I keep leftover stuffed shells?
You can keep leftover stuffed shells in the fridge for up to three days. Store them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to three months.
What should I serve with Stuffed Shells Florentine?
Stuffed shells go well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You can also serve them with steamed vegetables or a light soup for a complete meal.
Making Stuffed Shells Florentine is not just fun; it’s a tasty win. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to create this delightful dish. Remember, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your needs, whether it’s adding meat or making it vegetarian. Always store leftovers properly for future meals. With these guidelines, you can impress anyone at the dinner table. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this comforting recip
