Introduction:
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, yet low-calorie meal, look no further than these WW (Weight Watchers) Stuffed Jumbo Shells! This recipe is packed with all the flavors you crave but comes in at a fraction of the points, making it perfect for those on a WW (formerly Weight Watchers) program. With a delicate blend of creamy ricotta, zesty marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta shells, this dish brings together the best of Italian comfort food with a healthier twist. Whether you’re trying to watch your calorie intake, manage your weight, or simply enjoy a light, satisfying meal, these stuffed shells will leave you feeling full and content without going overboard on your points.

In this recipe, we will break down the entire preparation process step by step, including all necessary measurements, helpful cooking tips, and smart points breakdown. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this dish is easy to follow and full of satisfying flavors. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Stuffed Shells:

  • 20 Jumbo Pasta Shells (uncooked)
  • 1 ½ cups part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 1 ½ cups part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup spinach, finely chopped (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 large egg (to bind the filling)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

For the Marinara Sauce:

  • 2 cups low-sugar marinara sauce (look for a WW-friendly brand or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • ¼ cup part-skim mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Boil the Jumbo Shells:
    Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to package instructions. Typically, they take about 10-12 minutes to reach al dente. Once they’re cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to prevent further cooking. Set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
  2. Prepare the Spinach Filling:
    If you’re using fresh spinach, wash and finely chop it. If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw it out and squeeze out the excess water. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Add the spinach, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. If you like, you can add fresh basil for a burst of flavor.
  3. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the stuffed shells. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Stuff the Shells:
    Carefully stuff each cooked jumbo shell with a generous amount of the spinach and cheese mixture. Take your time to fill each shell evenly, but don’t overstuff them to avoid breaking the pasta.
  5. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
    In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir in the basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Arrange the Shells in the Baking Dish:
    Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, arrange the stuffed shells on top in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, making sure they are evenly covered.
  7. Top with Cheese (Optional):
    For a cheesy finish, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely golden top and enhances the flavor.
  8. Bake the Stuffed Shells:
    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly golden.
  9. Serve and Enjoy:
    Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired. Serve these stuffed shells with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips for a Perfect Dish:

  • Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds more flavor and texture to the filling, but frozen spinach works just as well. Just be sure to thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture in the stuffing.
  • Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it, then bake it on the day you plan to serve it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
  • Low-Sodium Marinara: To keep this recipe WW-friendly, opt for a low-sodium marinara sauce. This will help you cut down on unnecessary sodium intake while still providing a delicious flavor.
  • Don’t Overstuff: If you overstuff the shells, they may break during baking. Stick to a moderate amount of filling per shell, and it will hold up better throughout the cooking process.
  • Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, lean ground turkey, or a bit of ricotta mixed with other herbs for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 220
  • Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 7g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Sodium: 430mg

SmartPoints Breakdown:

  • Blue Plan: 4 SmartPoints per serving
  • Green Plan: 5 SmartPoints per serving
  • Purple Plan: 5 SmartPoints per serving

This dish is a great option for anyone following the WW program, and it provides a satisfying portion without using up your entire points allocation for the day. You can easily add a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a full meal, keeping everything low in points.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  1. Comforting and Hearty: This dish provides that comforting, indulgent feeling that you crave from Italian food without the high calories or heavy ingredients.
  2. Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
  3. Great for Families or Groups: Stuffed shells are perfect for serving large groups, and everyone will appreciate the delicious flavors without feeling weighed down.
  4. Balanced Meal: With a good combination of protein, carbs, and fiber, this dish will keep you satisfied for hours, helping to curb hunger and reduce snacking.
  5. Low SmartPoints: By using part-skim cheeses and a lean, healthy filling, this recipe stays within the WW guidelines while still offering plenty of flavor and texture.

Conclusion:

These WW Stuffed Jumbo Shells are an easy, filling, and satisfying meal that doesn’t break your SmartPoints budget. They’re simple to make and taste like a true Italian comfort food classic, but with a healthier twist. The combination of lean cheese, spinach, and flavorful marinara sauce ensures every bite is packed with nutrients, while keeping the calories in check. Perfect for anyone following a weight-loss program or just looking for a healthier way to enjoy a beloved dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it today and feel great about your meal choices!