Go Back

Creepy Stuffed Shells

These spooky baked shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach, then baked in a rich marinara sauce. Topped with black olives and extra cheese, they develop a bubbly, golden crust with a slightly charred, mottled appearance, perfect for Halloween or a fun dinner surprise.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 12 pieces large pasta shells uncooked
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry
  • 2 cups marinara sauce rich and thick
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chipotle powder for more smoky flavor
  • 1/2 cup black olives sliced for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking dish
  • Spoon or piping bag
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta shells until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, thawed spinach, and a pinch of nutmeg, mixing until smooth and creamy.
  4. Using a spoon or piping bag, stuff each cooked shell generously with the cheese mixture, then place them snugly in a baking dish.
  5. In a separate bowl, stir the marinara sauce with smoked paprika, creating a spicy, smoky sauce.
  6. Pour the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are fully covered and nestled in the sauce.
  7. Sprinkle extra mozzarella and sliced black olives over the top for a mottled, spooky appearance.
  8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, then bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the top to bubble and turn golden.
  9. Once bubbly and golden on top, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to settle.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, then serve hot, enjoying the gooey, smoky, and spooky flavors.