This dish takes classic Italian pasta shells and transforms them with a South Asian-inspired chicken and spinach filling—infused with warming spices, creamy ricotta, and a double layer of cheese. It’s a dish that screams cozy comfort, yet delivers bold, familiar flavor.
The homemade cheese sauce is rich and savory, made from a base of butter, garlic, milk, and cheddar, seasoned with paprika, oregano, and onion powder. Together, the filling and sauce marry beautifully under a broiled golden top. Perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing in advance, this bake ticks all the boxes of hearty, satisfying, and freezer-friendly.
Rich and Creamy: Double cheese from the sauce and filling makes every bite melt in your mouth.
Spiced to Perfection: A hint of red chilli, paprika, and garlic powder gives depth without overpowering.
Great for Leftovers or Sharing: The recipe makes two trays—perfect for meal prep, gifting, or storing.
Kid-Friendly Yet Sophisticated: It’s familiar enough for kids but flavorful enough for adults.
Weeknight dinners that stretch into lunch the next day.
Special occasions or casual potlucks.
Comfort food cravings with a spicy twist.
500g chicken mince
2 tbsp oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
1 red or green bell pepper, diced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp red chilli flakes
¾ tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
200g baby spinach
250g ricotta cheese
75g shredded mozzarella cheese
30g unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
20g plain flour
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp red chilli flakes (optional)
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp oregano
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
500ml milk
100g shredded cheddar cheese
500g giant pasta shells
Extra shredded mozzarella & cheddar for topping
Sprinkle of oregano
Stuff the Shells: Cook pasta shells until al dente. Fill each shell with the chicken and cheese mixture.
Prepare the Sauce: Make the cheese sauce and pour it into baking trays, then nestle the filled shells on top.
Top & Bake: Sprinkle extra cheese and oregano on top.
Bake Covered: Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20 minutes.
Finish Uncovered: Remove foil and broil for 5–10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
This recipe yields two shallow tray bakes. Serve one fresh and freeze the other (unbaked) for later. Just defrost for a few hours at room temperature before baking as usual. Your future self will thank you!
