Jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta, spinach, and herbs — baked in marinara and topped with melty cheese. A festive, make-ahead holiday dish.
20 jumbo pasta shells, cooked al dente
15 oz ricotta cheese
1½ cups shredded mozzarella, divided
½ cup grated Parmesan, divided
1 egg
1½ cups chopped spinach
1–2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 cups marinara sauce
Fresh basil, for garnish
Cook shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and cool.
Mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, spinach, egg, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
Spread 1½ cups marinara in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Fill shells with ricotta mixture and arrange in the dish.
Top with remaining sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Cover and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 10–15 minutes more.
Let rest 5–10 minutes. Garnish with basil and serve.
Make ahead or freeze before baking.
Add ground meat for a heartier version.
Garnish with pesto drizzle for holiday flair.