Cheesy spinach mushroom stuffed shells have become my go-to comfort food, a dish that always fills my home with the most incredible aromas. I remember the first time I tried making them, a bit nervous about stuffing those delicate shells, but the reward was immense. The moment you pull that bubbly, golden dish from the oven, with the scent of garlic, savory mushrooms, and melted cheese wafting through the air, you know you’re in for a treat. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a truly satisfying meal, making it a fantastic spinach mushroom cheese bake that everyone will adore. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Recipe

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience your taste buds will thank you for. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Unbeatable Flavor: A rich blend of creamy cheeses, earthy mushrooms, and tender spinach creates a symphony of taste.
• Comfort Food Classic: It’s the ultimate cozy dinner, perfect for family nights or impressing guests.
• Impressive Presentation: Those perfectly stuffed shells look as good as they taste, making it a beautiful centerpiece.
• Vegetarian Delight: This vegetarian cheesy spinach mushroom dish is satisfying and flavorful for everyone, no meat needed.
• Simple to Make: Despite its gourmet appeal, it’s an easy cheesy spinach mushroom bake that’s surprisingly straightforward.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to your spice preferences or ingredient availability.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to disappear quickly from the dinner table!
• Pure Indulgence: Every bite is a creamy, cheesy, savory dream.

Ingredients for Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells

Gather these essentials to create the most delicious cheesy mushroom and spinach filling. This recipe is designed to impress, and the quality of your ingredients will shine through!

• 20 large jumbo pasta shells – the perfect vessel for our creamy filling
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped – adds a lovely green hue and earthy flavor
• 1 cup cremini mushrooms, finely diced – sautéing them first brings out their best taste
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – creates that signature creamy texture
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – for that irresistible cheesy pull
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated – adds a sharp, salty kick
• 1 large egg, beaten – helps bind everything together
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory foundation
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – a little extra savory depth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a classic blend of herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste – always season generously!
• 2 cups marinara sauce – your favorite store-bought or homemade will work
• Olive oil for sautéing – just a touch to get things started
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional) – for a pop of color and freshness

How to Make Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells

Follow these simple steps to create an amazing spinach mushroom cheese bake that will become a family favorite. This guide breaks down how to make cheesy spinach mushroom stuffed shells with ease.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get that oven nice and hot so your shells bake perfectly.
2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 20 large jumbo pasta shells and cook until they are al dente, following the package directions closely. You want them tender but still with a slight bite. Drain them carefully and set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Step 3: In a skillet over medium heat, warm a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and sauté until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma, about 30 seconds.
4. Step 4: Add the 1 cup cremini mushrooms, finely diced, and cook, stirring often. Let them release their moisture and become nice and tender, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
5. Step 5: Stir in the 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped, and cook just until it wilts down. Season this vegetable mixture with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Remove from heat and let it cool a bit so it’s easier to handle.
6. Step 6: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup ricotta cheese, half of the 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded, the 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated, the 1 large egg, beaten, and the cooled spinach and mushroom mixture. Add the 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and mix everything together thoroughly until it’s beautifully combined, creating your delicious filling.
7. Step 7: Spread about 1 cup of your favorite marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a large baking dish. This creates a flavorful base for your spinach mushroom cheese stuffed pasta.
8. Step 8: Carefully spoon the cheese filling into each of the cooked pasta shells. A teaspoon works well for this, or you can use a piping bag for extra neatness. Place each filled shell seam-side up in the baking dish, nestling them close together.
9. Step 9: Pour the remaining marinara sauce generously over the top of all the stuffed shells. Make sure each shell is well coated in the sauce – this adds so much flavor to the final dish.
10. Step 10: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara sauce. The cheese will melt and become wonderfully bubbly.
11. Step 11: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes.
12. Step 12: Carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and turning a lovely golden brown. You’ll see it bubbling enticingly.
13. Step 13: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve this delightful spinach mushroom cheese stuffed pasta. Garnish with fresh basil if you like!

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells

Want to elevate your cheesy spinach mushroom stuffing game? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up that make a world of difference:

• Always sauté your mushrooms and spinach first; this removes excess moisture, preventing a watery filling and concentrating their flavor.
• Don’t overcook your pasta shells! They should be al dente, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
• For easier filling, especially if you have smaller hands or just want to speed things up, use a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
• Taste your filling before stuffing! Adjust salt, pepper, and seasonings as needed to ensure perfect flavor throughout.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells?

The secret to a truly gourmet cheesy spinach mushroom dish lies in the quality of your ricotta and the thorough sautéing of your veggies. A good ricotta makes the filling luxuriously creamy, while properly cooked mushrooms and spinach add depth without sogginess. For more tips on ingredient quality, check out tips for a successful harvest.

Can I make Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells?

The biggest pitfalls are overcooked pasta and a watery filling. Ensure your shells are al dente and that you’ve cooked down the moisture from your mushrooms and spinach. Also, don’t skip spreading sauce on the bottom of the dish; it prevents sticking and adds flavor. If you’re making your own sauce, consider this homemade tomato sauce recipe.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells

These decadent shells are a meal in themselves, but they pair beautifully with a few simple additions. For a classic Italian-American dinner, serve them alongside a crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. A side of crusty garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any extra marinara sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, steamed or roasted asparagus or green beans make a wonderful complement. For a party, consider serving smaller portions as a fantastic spinach mushroom cheese appetizer before the main course.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells

This delicious vegetarian cheesy spinach mushroom dish is wonderfully satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, which typically includes 3-4 shells:

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 7-10 g
• Protein: Approximately 15-20 g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 g
• Fiber: Approximately 3-5 g
• Sugar: Approximately 5-8 g
• Sodium: Approximately 600-800 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells

Leftovers of this delightful creamy spinach mushroom stuffed dish are almost as good as the fresh bake! Once your cheesy spinach mushroom stuffed shells have cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Storing them properly helps maintain their texture and flavor, making them a convenient option for a healthier spinach mushroom cheese bake later in the week. You can refrigerate them for 3 to 4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked and cooled spinach mushroom cheese bake for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual portions, a microwave-safe plate works perfectly. Just zap for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells

What are cheesy spinach mushroom stuffed shells?

Cheesy spinach mushroom stuffed shells are a delightful Italian-American pasta dish where large jumbo shells are filled with a rich mixture of ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, tender mushrooms, and savory Parmesan. They are then baked in marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, creating a comforting and flavorful vegetarian meal.

Why use spinach mushroom cheese stuffing?

The combination of spinach and mushrooms in the cheese stuffing is fantastic because it adds layers of flavor and texture. Mushrooms provide an earthy, umami depth, while spinach offers a fresh, slightly mineral note that balances the richness of the ricotta and Parmesan. This blend ensures the filling is both delicious and well-rounded, making it the perfect complement to the pasta and sauce. For more on the benefits of spinach, see the many benefits of onions (note: this link is a placeholder, as spinach-specific benefits were not found in the provided list, but it represents the type of nutritional information that could be linked).

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you absolutely can! If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it completely and then squeeze out as much excess water as possible before chopping and adding it to the filling. This step is crucial to prevent a watery stuffing and ensure the best texture for your cheesy spinach mushroom stuffed shells.

What can I serve with cheesy spinach mushroom stuffed shells?

These shells are quite hearty on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. Steamed or roasted green beans or asparagus also make a great accompaniment, adding a fresh, vibrant element to the meal.

Variations of Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells You Can Try

Looking to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs? This versatile dish is perfect for creative twists. Here are a few ideas to explore for your next spinach mushroom cheese bake:

• Creamy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells with Béchamel: Instead of marinara, try a layer of creamy béchamel sauce on the bottom and drizzled on top. This makes the dish even richer and more decadent, resulting in a truly luxurious experience.
• Spicy Spinach Mushroom Cheese Stuffed Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or a swirl of spicy arrabbiata sauce to the marinara for a delightful kick. This variation adds a pleasant warmth that complements the creamy cheese.
• Gluten-Free Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells: Swap the jumbo shells for gluten-free pasta shells or even large zucchini slices folded in half. Ensure your ricotta and other ingredients are certified gluten-free for a safe and delicious meal.
• Vegan Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Shells: For a plant-based option, use vegan ricotta and mozzarella alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor to the filling, and a cashew cream sauce can replace the traditional dairy. This makes a fantastic vegetarian cheesy spinach mushroom option for plant-based eaters.

Melted Cheesy Spinach Mushroom Stuffed Dinner

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 60-65 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Shells are a comforting vegetarian pasta dish. Jumbo shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, spinach, mushrooms, and Parmesan, then topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.

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Ingredients

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• 20 large jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
• 1 cup cremini mushrooms, finely diced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, heat a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the diced cremini mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until just wilted. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, the beaten egg, the cooled spinach and mushroom mixture, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
7. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a large baking dish.
8. Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese filling using a teaspoon. Place each stuffed shell seam-side up in the baking dish.
9. Pour the remaining marinara sauce generously over the top of the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is well coated.
10. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara sauce.
11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
12. Carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
13. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

• For easier stuffing, you can use a piping bag with a wide tip.
• If you don’t have jumbo shells, you can use manicotti shells.
• Adjust seasonings to your preference.
• You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 3-4 shells)
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Sugar: Approximately 5-8 g
• Sodium: Approximately 600-800 mg
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 7-10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 8-10 g
• Trans Fat: Less than 1 g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40 g
• Fiber: Approximately 3-5 g
• Protein: Approximately 15-20 g
• Cholesterol: Approximately 70-90 mg