When it comes to comforting yet nutritious meals, these stuffed pasta shells are hard to beat! Filled with creamy low-fat cottage cheese, spinach, and Italian seasonings, this recipe is a protein-packed option that’s perfect for vegetarians looking to boost their protein intake. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also a dish that feels indulgent while keeping things healthy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, these stuffed pasta shells are sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe
Great for Meal Prep: These stuffed pasta shells reheat beautifully, making them a perfect option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
High in Protein: The low-fat cottage cheese is the star of this dish, offering a creamy texture while delivering an impressive protein boost. Combined with mozzarella and an egg, this recipe is perfect for vegetarians aiming to increase their protein intake.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with wholesome ingredients like spinach and seasoned with classic Italian flavors, this recipe is ideal for vegetarians seeking a balanced and satisfying meal.
Simple and Affordable: With pantry staples like marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, these stuffed shells are both easy to prepare and budget-friendly.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite veggies, swap out marinara for a different sauce (like pesto), or even try whole wheat pasta shells for a healthier twist.
Approximate Macros (Per Serving)
- Calories: 497
- Protein: 33.22 grams
- Carbohydrates: 43.3 grams
- Fat: 24.55 grams
With this balanced macro profile, you can enjoy a filling and nutritious meal that supports your protein goals while satisfying your stuffed pasta shells cravings.
Ingredient Breakdown:
If you want to make the best stuffed pasta shells with cottage cheese, make sure you have the following ingredients:
Stuffed Shells:
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup spinach, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt
Assembly:
- 2 cup marinara sauce
- 2.5 cup low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Cottage Cheese
- Prepare the Filling: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a blender, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, egg, garlic paste, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, onion powder, and red pepper flakes, and blend into a smooth paste. Fold the mozzarella cheese into the paste and mix until evenly combined.
- Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.
- Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cottage cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
- Add the Sauce and Cheese: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is coated. Sprinkle the shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle fresh parsley over the stuffed pasta shells top for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Looking For More Recipes? Check These Out!
Yes! If you prefer ricotta, you can substitute it for cottage cheese in a 1:1 ratio. However, using cottage cheese provides more protein and a lighter texture.
While jumbo shells are traditional for this recipe, you could use manicotti or cannelloni as alternatives. Simply adjust the filling process accordingly.
Stuffed Pasta Shells with Cottage Cheese
Ingredients
Filling:
- 1 cup Low fat cottage cheese
- 1 Egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup Spinach
- 1 tsp Garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1/2 tsp Red chili flakes
- 2 cup Low fat mozzarella cheese
Assembly
- 2 cup Marinara sauce, ( I like to use the Rao's Brand)
- 16 Jumbo pasta shells
- 1/2 cup More motz for topping
- Parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a blender, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, egg, garlic paste, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, onion powder, and red pepper flakes, and blend into a smooth paste. Fold the mozzarella cheese into the paste and mix until evenly combined.
- Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.
- Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cottage cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
- Add the Sauce and Cheese: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is coated. Sprinkle the shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
