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Stuffed Shells in casserole dish before baking

Healthy Stuffed Shells with Cannellini Beans and Spinach: A Lighter Take on a Comforting Classic


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  • Author: Jessica Salerno
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 20 Shells
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Healthy Stuffed Shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, cannellini beans, and spinach, making them a lighter, nutrient-packed version of the classic dish. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, they’re a delicious, wholesome comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil 

  • 2 cups Ricotta Cheese (or 15 oz container)

  • 1 cup Cannellini Beans (or half a can)

  • 2 cups Spinach

  • 2 cups Mozzarella, divided

  • ½ teaspoon italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon garlic

  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

  • 24 jumbo shells (this includes an extra few for ones that may break in the cooking process)

  • 3 cups favorite marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought


Instructions

Prep the Oven and Pasta:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Make the Filling:

In a food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, cannellini beans, spinach, mozzarella, olive oil, and seasonings. Blend on high for about 1 minute, or until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasonings to taste if needed.

Assemble the Stuffed Shells:

Spread 1 cup of tomato sauce evenly across the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish. Take each pasta shell and gently open it. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the creamy filling into each shell, allowing them to be generously filled (it’s perfectly fine if the filling overflows a little!). Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish.

Top the shells with the remaining tomato sauce, making sure each shell is well-coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Bake:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden. For a slightly crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once the shells are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with a side of crusty bread and a fresh, vibrant salad for the perfect meal!

Notes

See above blog post for tips on make ahead, and storage!

  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 40
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Oven