Spicy Unstuffed Shells with Whipped Ricotta
Indulge in the perfect blend of comfort and zest with Spicy Unstuffed Shells with Whipped Ricotta. This vibrant dish features large pasta shells enveloped in a savory, spicy sauce, topped with creamy whipped ricotta that balances the heat beautifully. Ideal for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe promises an unforgettable dining experience with every flavorful bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage (or sweet sausage for milder flavor)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 cup whipped ricotta
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add sausage and cook until browned. Stir in diced tomatoes and crushed red pepper flakes; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix in spinach until wilted, then fold half of the whipped ricotta into the sauce.
- Spread half of the sauce in the baking dish, fill each pasta shell with remaining sausage mixture, and arrange them over the sauce. Top with remaining sauce and dollops of whipped ricotta.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until heated through. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 filled pasta shell (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg