Description
Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells with Basil Sauce is a comforting Italian dish that combines creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and a rich basil vodka sauce, all enveloped in tender jumbo pasta shells. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or romantic date nights, offering a delightful mix of flavors that are sure to impress. With its vibrant presentation and delicious taste, it’s an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes
- 3 large whole basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup half and half cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Additional minced basil and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced shallots and garlic until softened; add tomato paste and vodka, cooking briefly.
- Add whole peeled tomatoes and basil leaves to the skillet. Simmer for 15 minutes, then stir in half and half and butter before removing basil leaves.
- In another skillet, sauté spinach with garlic until wilted. Let cool, then mix with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Stuff each shell with the spinach mixture and place in a baking dish with sauce on the bottom and top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg