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Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

If you’re craving something warm, cozy, and restaurant-worthy without spending hours in the kitchen, these Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells are the perfect comfort food. Jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, nutty parmesan, and tender spinach all baked in rich marinara sauce until golden, bubbly, and irresistibly delicious.

This classic Italian-style dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy, and hearty. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a date night, or a weekend treat, this recipe brings the flavors of your favorite Italian restaurant right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is everything you want in a comforting, cheesy baked pasta meal. The shells are stuffed with a rich, flavorful mixture that feels indulgent but still offers the freshness of spinach and aromatic garlic. Baking everything in marinara sauce ensures every bite is saucy, cozy, and deeply satisfying.

You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple, customizable, and perfect for meal prep. The filling takes just minutes to mix, the sauce keeps everything moist and flavorful, and the extra melty mozzarella on top creates the perfect golden crust. It’s also a crowd-pleaser kids, adults, and guests all adore it. And the best part? It tastes even better the next day.

Baked-Penne-with-Chicken-Broccoli-Smoked-Mozzarella

Crispy Sheet Pan Chicken Caesar Salad

Easy Sheet Pan Chicken Caesar Salad with roasted chicken, crispy croutons, and charred romaine. A fast 30-minute one-pan dinner full of flavor.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 People

Course: Salad

Cuisine: American

Calories: 430

Notes

Ingredients (With Measurements)

Chicken

2 large chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper

Croutons

3 cups bread cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper

Salad

3 romaine hearts (halved lengthwise)
½ cup shaved Parmesan
½–¾ cup Caesar dressing
Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken onto a large sheet pan, leaving room for croutons.

2. Add the Croutons Scatter bread cubes around the chicken. Coat with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

3. Bake the Chicken & Croutons Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes until the croutons are golden and crisp and the chicken begins to cook through.

4. Add Romaine Place halved romaine hearts cut-side up onto the same pan. Drizzle with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Roast for 5–7 minutes until the edges char lightly.

5. Assemble the Salad Slice the cooked chicken. Arrange on top of roasted romaine along with croutons. Add Parmesan, drizzle Caesar dressing, and finish with fresh lemon juice.

6. Serve Enjoy warm, directly from the pan, or plate individually.

Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Caesar Salad

Use day-old bread for the crispiest croutons.
Keep an eye on romaine slight char is perfect.
Add protein twists: shrimp, salmon, or seasoned tofu.
Keep dressing separate for meal prep.

Add toppings like bacon, tomatoes, or avocado for extra flavor.

Storage Instructions

Chicken: 3–4 days refrigerated
Croutons: Store separately to prevent sogginess
Romaine: Best fresh but lasts 1 day if undressed

Nutrition Info: 430 calories • 32g protein • 24g fat • 24g carbs

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Common Questions

Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day. Then bake as usual. It’s perfect for busy nights.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Absolutely. Freeze before baking for best results. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

What if I don’t have an egg?

No problem. Add a bit more ricotta or a small amount of mashed potatoes to help bind the filling.

How do I keep the shells from sticking together?

After boiling, drizzle them with a little olive oil or spread them out on a baking sheet until you’re ready to fill them.

How many shells per person?

Typically 4–6 shells per serving depending on appetite. For a family of four, this recipe is perfect.

Conclusion

These Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells are the perfect blend of comfort, creaminess, and Italian-inspired flavor. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that feels special enough for guests yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner. The combination of melted cheeses, tender pasta, and savory marinara makes every bite rich and satisfying. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a dinner, or treating yourself to something delicious, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Let the cheesy goodness begin!

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Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells