Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta is a luxurious and satisfying dish that combines tender shrimp, fresh spinach, and a creamy ricotta filling, all stuffed into tender pasta shells and baked to perfection. This dish is rich in flavor and texture, offering a wonderful balance between the savory shrimp, earthy spinach, and creamy cheese filling. It’s an impressive yet easy-to-make dish that works well for both casual dinners and special occasions.

The combination of shrimp and spinach inside large pasta shells creates a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can make a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a dinner party, Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta will undoubtedly impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of shrimp, spinach, and ricotta cheese creates a harmonious flavor profile that is rich, creamy, and satisfying. The shrimp adds a delicate seafood flavor, while the spinach provides a healthy and earthy element. The ricotta filling ties everything together with its creamy texture.
• Impressive Presentation: Stuffed pasta shells look impressive on a plate, making this dish perfect for a dinner party or special occasion. The vibrant green spinach and succulent shrimp pop against the white cheese filling and red marinara sauce, making for a visually stunning meal.
• Versatile and Customizable: This recipe can easily be adjusted based on your preferences. You can swap the shrimp for chicken or add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also adjust the amount of cheese or add spices for a customized twist.
• Comforting Yet Light: Despite its indulgent flavor, this dish is relatively light. The stuffed pasta shells provide a filling base without being overwhelming, and the combination of spinach and shrimp keeps the dish from feeling too heavy.
• Easy to Make: While it may seem like an elaborate dish, Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta is actually quite simple to make. With a bit of preparation and the right ingredients, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it came from a fine dining restaurant.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta:

• 12-15 jumbo pasta shells, cooked according to package instructions
• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool. You can drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the shells to prevent them from sticking together while they cool.

2. Cook the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.

After the shrimp have cooled, chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. This will allow the shrimp to be evenly distributed throughout the filling.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the spinach has wilted and the excess moisture has evaporated. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside to cool.

4. Prepare the Ricotta Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the lightly beaten egg. Add the chopped shrimp and sautéed spinach mixture to the bowl, along with the dried basil, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be thick and creamy, making it easy to stuff the pasta shells.

5. Stuff the Pasta Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Take each cooked pasta shell and stuff it generously with the shrimp and spinach mixture, using a spoon to fill each shell completely. Place each stuffed shell in the baking dish, seam-side down.

6. Top with Sauce and Cheese

Once all the pasta shells are stuffed and arranged in the baking dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells. Be sure to cover the shells evenly with sauce. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce. This will create a delicious cheesy crust when baked.

7. Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the stuffed pasta for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is simmering.

8. Serve and Garnish

Once the Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta is done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired for a touch of heat. Serve the dish with extra marinara sauce on the side, and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure not to overcook them. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough. Sauté them just until they turn pink and opaque for the best texture.
• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe as it wilts quickly and adds a bright, fresh flavor. If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw it thoroughly and squeeze out any excess moisture before using it.
• Be Generous with the Filling: Don’t be afraid to stuff each pasta shell generously. You want each shell to be filled to the brim with the shrimp and spinach mixture for maximum flavor.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add more marinara sauce to the baking dish. You can also mix in some cream or a little bit of red wine for a richer sauce.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Stuff the shells and arrange them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add the sauce and cheese and follow the baking instructions.
• Serve with Bread: To complete the meal, serve the Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. A fresh loaf of bread is perfect for sopping up the marinara sauce.

Variations of Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta

• Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Pasta: If you love seafood, add some crab meat to the shrimp and spinach filling for a luxurious, seafood-packed version of this dish. The crab adds a delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
• Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Pasta: For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and use extra spinach or other vegetables like mushrooms or artichokes in place of the seafood. You can also use a combination of cheeses like feta, mozzarella, and ricotta for added flavor.
• Spicy Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta: If you like heat, add some diced fresh chili peppers or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the ricotta mixture. This will give the dish a nice spicy kick that complements the richness of the shrimp and cheese.
• Lemon Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta: Add some fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice to the shrimp and spinach filling for a bright and zesty twist. The citrus will enhance the flavor of the shrimp and add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese.
• Shrimp Alfredo Stuffed Pasta: For a creamy variation, replace the marinara sauce with homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce. The creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce will pair perfectly with the shrimp and spinach filling.

Storage and Shelf Life

Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed pasta. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen stuffed pasta can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta

Pair this delicious dish with complementary sides to round out your meal:

• Garlic Bread: A loaf of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the marinara sauce and balancing out the richness of the stuffed pasta.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach and a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stuffed pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots are a great side dish that complements the flavors of the pasta without overpowering it.
• Steamed Asparagus: For a simple and elegant side, serve the Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta with a side of steamed asparagus. The slight bitterness of the asparagus pairs well with the creamy pasta.

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Conclusion

Shrimp and Spinach Stuffed Pasta is a delightful, flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, creamy ricotta cheese, and sautéed spinach, all wrapped in a large pasta shell and baked with marinara sauce. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion. With its rich flavor, satisfying texture, and beautiful presentation, it’s a dish that will become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this delicious and comforting meal!