Steak & Spinach Alfredo Stuffed Shells

If you’re craving a comforting, indulgent dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality meal right at home, these Steak & Spinach Alfredo Stuffed Shells are here to satisfy. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of tender beef steak, fresh spinach, and creamy cheeses, then baked in a luscious Alfredo sauce. This dish brings together the best of hearty steak and silky pasta in a way that’s both impressive and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, these stuffed shells hit all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves rich, creamy Italian-inspired dishes with a bit of a meaty twist. The combination of steak and spinach makes it feel hearty and nutritious without skimping on flavor. Plus, the use of jumbo pasta shells means each bite offers a perfect balance of filling and sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize, and since it’s all baked in one dish, cleanup is minimal. This recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your pasta night and impress family or guests with minimal fuss.

What You’ll Gather

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound beef steak, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup Alfredo sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta shells
• Large skillet – to cook the steak and spinach mixture
• Mixing bowl – to combine cheeses and seasonings
• Baking dish (approx. 9×13 inches) – to bake the stuffed shells
• Slotted spoon or tongs – for removing pasta shells from boiling water
• Spoon or small spatula – for stuffing pasta shells

The Method for Steak & Spinach Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente – usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as the shells will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the shells and set them aside on a lightly oiled baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Steak and Spinach Filling

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped beef steak, seasoning with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Cook the steak pieces until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Cheeses

In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup ricotta cheese, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the steak and spinach mixture to the bowl and stir until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a spoon or small spatula, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the steak, spinach, and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in your baking dish.

Step 5: Add Alfredo Sauce and Bake

Pour 1 cup of Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them lightly but thoroughly. Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top if you like for a golden crust. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the stuffed shells from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Serve with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

• Swap out fresh spinach for kale or Swiss chard when spinach is out of season.
• Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling for a burst of flavor.
• Try incorporating mushrooms or zucchini sautéed with the steak for extra veggies.
• Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano in place of Italian seasoning for a garden-fresh twist.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

• Overcooked pasta shells: Make sure to boil them just until al dente; they should still have a slight bite since they’ll bake in the sauce.
• Filling too watery: If your spinach mixture is releasing too much liquid, drain it well before mixing with the cheeses.
• Steak chewy or tough: Cut the beef into uniform small pieces and don’t overcook; steak cooks quickly and should remain tender.
• Sauce too thick or thin: Adjust with a splash of milk or cream if too thick, or simmer longer if too thin before baking.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store any unused stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze the stuffed shells before baking; just assemble as directed, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Ask & Learn

Can I use ground beef instead of steak?

Absolutely! Ground beef works well and will give the dish a different texture but equally delicious flavor. Just cook it thoroughly and season as you would the steak.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the steak and increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables like mushrooms or artichokes. You can also try the Creamy Spinach And Artichoke Pasta for a similar creamy veggie-packed pasta inspiration.

What’s the best cheese to use for stuffing the shells?

Ricotta provides creaminess and moisture, mozzarella adds melty stretchiness, and Parmesan gives a salty, nutty depth. Together they create the perfect balance for stuffed shells.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce from scratch?

Definitely! A simple homemade Alfredo sauce with butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese will elevate the dish even further. Using store-bought is convenient, but fresh sauce adds a special touch.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Spinach Parmesan Pasta With Chicken – Another creamy, protein-packed pasta dish with fresh spinach and tender chicken.
• Creamy Spinach And Artichoke Pasta – A vegetarian favorite with a luscious sauce and wholesome ingredients.
• Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes – A lighter, veggie-forward alternative packed with fresh flavors.
• Baked Eggplant Parmesan – A classic Italian comfort food with a healthier baked twist.

Let’s Eat

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of serving up a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. These Steak & Spinach Alfredo Stuffed Shells bring creamy, cheesy goodness to your dinner table with tender steak and vibrant spinach tucked inside perfectly cooked pasta shells. Paired with a crisp salad or some garlic bread, this is a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the rich flavors, the hearty textures, and the simple joy of a homemade Italian feast.

With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a fantastic way to treat yourself and loved ones. Plus, by swapping in seasonal vegetables or trying different cheeses, you can make this dish your own every time. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy night in, these stuffed shells are destined to become a favorite.

So grab your skillet and baking dish, boil those jumbo shells, and get ready to indulge in some serious comfort food magic tonight!

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