jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a delicious blend of fresh spinach and sweet corn, making for a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner, they’re easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time25 min
Total Time35 min
Difficulty
Medium
Pro Cooking Tips
Be sure to cook the pasta shells just until al dente so they hold their shape when stuffed.
Squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
Use a spoon or piping bag to fill the shells neatly and avoid tearing the pasta.
Ingredients
0/11
What Makes This Recipe So Great
This dish combines the sweetness of corn with the earthiness of spinach, creating a flavorful and colorful filling. The jumbo pasta shells offer a fun and satisfying texture that holds the filling perfectly. It’s a comforting meal that feels homemade and hearty without being heavy.
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the pasta shells and cook them until they’re tender but still have a little bite—this usually takes about 9 minutes. While the pasta is cooking, heat some grapeseed oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Toss in the spinach, corn, chicken bouillon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let everything cook together until the spinach wilts and the corn softens, which should take around 5 minutes.
Step 2
When the shells are done, drain them carefully. Fill each shell with the spinach and corn mixture, then place them back in the skillet. Pour the diced tomatoes over the stuffed shells. In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste with some warm water until smooth, then pour this sauce over the shells as well.
Step 3
Cover the skillet and let everything simmer on medium heat for about 10 minutes, just until the tomatoes are heated through and the flavors meld. Sprinkle some dried cilantro on top before serving for a fresh finish.
105
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
Serving Combinations
Serve with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of marinara sauce on top adds extra flavor. This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a light white wine for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the filling. For longer storage, freeze the stuffed shells before baking, then bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, use about 4 cups of fresh spinach, sauté it until wilted before mixing with the corn.
How do I prevent the pasta shells from sticking together while cooking?
Stir the shells occasionally in the boiling water and add a little oil to the water if needed.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can cook the filling in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to stuff the shells.
What can I substitute for grapeseed oil?
Olive oil or vegetable oil work well as alternatives.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon to keep it vegan.
Can I bake the stuffed shells instead of simmering on the stove?
Yes, place the shells in a baking dish, cover with sauce, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
How do I know when the pasta shells are perfectly cooked?
They should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite, usually after about 9 minutes.
Can I add cheese to this dish?
Yes, adding ricotta or mozzarella inside the shells or on top before simmering or baking is a great option.
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