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Homemade Creamy Spinach & Feta Stuffed Shells with Marinara recipe photo

Creamy Spinach & Feta Stuffed Shells with Marinara

This Creamy Spinach & Feta Stuffed Shells with Marinara is cheesy, veggie-packed, and absolutely comforting—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 12 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch or similar)
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain carefully and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside on a plate lightly drizzled with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups chopped fresh spinach, 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, and 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese. Add 1 beaten egg, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until evenly combined and creamy.
  3. Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully fill each cooked shell with the spinach and cheese mixture. Be generous but avoid overfilling to keep the shells intact.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining 1 cup marinara sauce over the filled shells. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire dish. Finally, sprinkle dried oregano and basil across the top for added aroma.
  5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh spinach for best texture; chop finely for a smooth filling.
  • Rinse pasta shells after boiling to prevent sticking and tearing.
  • Cover the dish with foil while baking to keep shells moist and prevent drying out.
  • Make ahead by assembling the dish a day in advance; bake with extra minutes when chilled.
  • Leftovers keep refrigerated for 3 days or freeze unbaked for up to 2 months.