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Keto Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells - Comforting, Low-Carb, and Satisfying

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • For the shells (fathead dough): 1 1/2 cups shredded low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella
  • 2 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 3/4 cup superfine blanched almond flour
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • For the spinach ricotta filling: 1 1/2 cups whole-milk ricotta, well drained
  • 1 cup finely chopped spinach (fresh sautéed and squeezed dry, or thawed frozen and squeezed dry)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (or 1/4 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg for warmth
  • For assembly: 1 1/2 cups sugar-free marinara sauce (look for no added sugar)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella, for topping
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
  • Olive oil spray or a little olive oil for greasing

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread 1/2 cup marinara over the bottom to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the fathead dough. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups mozzarella and cream cheese. Microwave in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Stir in almond flour and salt, then mix in the beaten egg until a cohesive dough forms.
  3. Shape the shells. Place the warm dough between two sheets of parchment and roll to about 1/8-inch thick. Peel the top parchment and use a 3 1/2–4-inch round cutter (or a glass) to cut circles. Re-roll scraps as needed to get 10–12 rounds. Set aside on parchment.
  4. Make the filling. In a bowl, combine ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Mix until smooth and thick. The mixture should hold its shape on a spoon.
  5. Assemble. Place about 1 1/2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each dough circle. Gently fold two sides up to meet, creating a “shell” or taco shape that cradles the filling. Pinch the top edges just slightly to help them hold. Arrange in the prepared dish, open-side up.
  6. Top with sauce and cheese. Spoon the remaining marinara over and around the shells. Sprinkle with 1 cup shredded mozzarella.
  7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the edges of the shells look lightly golden. If desired, broil for 1–2 minutes to brown the top.
  8. Rest and garnish. Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes to firm up. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.