Warm up with these Cozy High Protein Stuffed Shells, a comforting and nutritious twist on the classic Italian dish. Filled with a rich mixture of cottage cheese, ricotta, and spinach, and packed with plant-based protein, these shells are not only vegetarian but also high in protein to keep you full and satisfied. Perfect for meal prep, this recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for an easy weeknight dinner. It’s the ultimate cozy comfort food that’s hearty, healthy, and a breeze to prepare!
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 12 large pasta shells (gluten-free, if preferred)
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese (use dairy-free ricotta if vegan)
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese (dairy-free cottage cheese for vegan option)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese (or dairy-free Parmesan for vegan option)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta Shells:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Stuffed Shells Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
3. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine, and let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Stuff the Pasta Shells:
Spoon the cheese and spinach mixture into each cooked shell, filling them generously. Arrange the stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Pour the prepared marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Use a spoon to gently cover all the shells with the sauce. If desired, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
6. Bake the Stuffed Shells:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the top to get golden and bubbly.
7. Serve:
Once the shells are cooked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love These Cozy High Protein Stuffed Shells
- High in Protein: With the combination of cottage cheese, ricotta, and spinach, these stuffed shells provide a healthy dose of protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied, making them perfect for muscle recovery or maintaining energy levels.
- Vegetarian and Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is ideal for vegetarians and anyone looking for a meatless meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrients. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep – simply make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for an easy meal throughout the week.
- Comforting and Hearty: The cheesy filling, combined with the hearty marinara sauce, gives you all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed shells, but with an added boost of nutrition.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Add in some ground tofu or lentils for even more protein, or use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version. You can also play with different vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or artichokes for added flavor and texture.
- Freezer-Friendly: These stuffed shells freeze beautifully, so you can make a big batch and have a healthy, comforting meal ready whenever you need it. Just assemble the shells and bake when ready to eat!
Enjoy!
These Cozy High Protein Stuffed Shells are the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly night, or to enjoy anytime you’re craving a comforting, nutrient-dense meal. With the added benefits of vegetarian protein, fiber-rich spinach, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is a wholesome choice for any time of the day. Whether you’re making them for dinner or prepping for the week ahead, these shells are sure to become a household favorite!