Creamy Ricotta Spinach & Shells

by Erin

Cooking for one is a challenge. Normally I don’t mind leftovers because they are great for lunches, but I find myself overrun with leftovers these days. Both in meals and desserts. I am convinced at times my fridge looks like I am feeding a family of 4. I have been freezing as much as I can but at the rate I’ve been going, soon my ice maker will be filled with non-ice items.

Every now and then I run across a single-serving meal that is quick and easy to make, and it immediately goes on my to-make list. This simple yet delicious pasta dish is great for a busy weeknight or when the thought of adding another tupperware full of leftovers to your fridge makes you shudder.

Two years ago: Iced & Spiced Applesauce Cookies

CREAMY RICOTTA SPINACH & SHELLS

Serves 1

Ingredients:

1/2 cup medium whole wheat pasta shells

4 cups chopped spinach

1/2 cup low fat ricotta cheese

2 Tbsp milk

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt, pepper, nutmeg

1/4 cup marinara

2 Tbsp shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

  1. Preheat the broiler.  Cook pasta according to package directions, about 7-8 minutes.  During the last minute of cook time add in the spinach to let it wilt with the pasta.  Drain the pasta/spinach and immediately return to the hot pot.  Stir in the ricotta cheese and milk until completely mixed.  Season with the garlic powder and salt/nutmeg/pepper to taste.  Pour into a ramekin and top with marinara and mozzarella.  Cook under the broiler until the cheese is golden and bubbly.  Serve hot!

Source: Heather’s Dish

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10 comments

Renee @ Tortillas and Honey December 13, 2012 - 1:07 pm

My boyfriend is all about quick meals. I think this meal would be a huge surprise because it looks like it takes forever, but can be made so quickly. I’ll have to make this one soon. Thanks Erin!

Reply
sally @ sallys baking addiction December 11, 2012 - 9:03 pm

I almost ALWAYS put spinach in my pasta dishes – a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. all this cheese and the veggies and the sauce – this recipe just works! LOVE the small batch too Erin. You are so good at that!

Reply
vanillasugarblog December 11, 2012 - 7:19 pm

I have a lot of leftovers too.
My freezer is even worse.
I would love to have a Sub Zero since they have twice the space.

Reply
spiffycookie December 11, 2012 - 7:29 pm

One day when I don’t live in an apartment…

Reply
Joanne @ Fifteen Spatulas December 11, 2012 - 1:48 pm

LOVE stuffed shells with spinach. Mmm!

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Heather @ Heather's Dish December 11, 2012 - 9:13 am

I’m so glad you like it! I make so many of those one-person pastas for lunch or when Nate’s out of town – as much as I like eating them, I hate having leftovers in my fridge!

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Elaine @ Cooking to Perfection December 11, 2012 - 8:15 am

I make a recipe just like this. But I’ve never added nutmeg! Interesting idea-I’m going to have to try it.

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william miller December 11, 2012 - 7:51 am

That sounds delicious and just so happens that I have a pot of sauce simmering on the stove for tonights dinner. This will be a welcome change from boring old spaghetti.

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Miriam @ Overtimecook December 11, 2012 - 6:49 am

This looks delicious! I’m a big fan of spinach in my pasta. Definitely have to try these!

Reply
Joanne December 11, 2012 - 6:38 am

My refrigerator ALWAYS looks like that! Leftovers galore..especially with these winter recipes that make 6 servings in one casserole!

I love this single-serve pasta dish!

Reply

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