Bring a touch of comfort and elegance to your holiday table with this Festive Christmas Stuffed Pasta. Picture tender pasta sheets filled with a luscious blend of creamy ricotta, wilted spinach, and aromatic herbs, all nestled in a cozy bed of vibrant marinara and blanketed in melty cheese. This dish isn’t just a visual centerpiece—it’s a cozy, heartwarming favorite that wraps your guests in love at first bite.

Whether you’re celebrating with family or hosting a Friendsmas gathering, this stuffed pasta makes any occasion feel special. It combines nostalgic Italian flavors with festive cheer, delivering a rich yet balanced taste that’s hearty, satisfying, and worthy of tradition.
What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Stuffed Pasta?
Lasagna sheets or fresh pasta cut into rectangles work best here. If you’re using store-bought, no-boil sheets softened in hot water will make rolling easier. You could also opt for wide egg noodles or even use large manicotti shells if you’d prefer individual rolls.
Ingredients for the Festive Christmas Stuffed Pasta
Ricotta Cheese – The creamy base for the filling, it brings richness and a delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with spinach.
Spinach – Adds earthy balance and vibrant green color. Frozen spinach works perfectly once it’s thawed and squeezed dry.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth and that signature salty, nutty kick.
Mozzarella Cheese – For a melty, gooey top layer and extra indulgence.
Egg – Helps bind the ricotta mixture so it holds its shape during baking.
Nutmeg – Just a pinch elevates the filling with cozy holiday warmth.
Garlic and Onion – For aromatic depth in the sauce or infused into the filling.
Marinara Sauce – Use your favorite store-bought or homemade version; it provides a tangy contrast to the creamy filling.
Pasta Sheets – Fresh or softened dry sheets work best for easy rolling.
How To Make the Festive Christmas Stuffed Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix together ricotta, squeezed-dry spinach, grated Parmesan, one egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and evenly combined.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
Step 3: Roll the Pasta
Lay out your pasta sheets. Spoon the filling onto each and roll up tightly. Cut in half if needed, then place seam side down in the dish.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Spoon more marinara over the rolls, sprinkle with mozzarella and extra Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Let Rest and Serve
Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Pasta
This pasta is best served warm, straight out of the oven, with an extra sprinkle of cheese or herbs. For a gathering, you can prepare the dish the night before and refrigerate. Simply bake when ready to serve. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.
To freeze, assemble the dish but don’t bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What to Serve With Festive Christmas Stuffed Pasta?
Garlic Knots
Soft, buttery garlic knots are a no-fail side to mop up all that sauce.
Winter Green Salad
Try arugula, pomegranate seeds, and a balsamic glaze for something light and festive.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Caramelized edges and a hint of sweetness add texture and seasonal flair.
Buttery Mashed Cauliflower
For a low-carb, creamy contrast.
Rustic Bread
Serve a crusty Italian loaf or focaccia for a family-style feel.
Holiday Antipasto Platter
A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, salami, and cheese sets the tone.
Creamy Tomato Soup
A warm starter that pairs like a dream.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If this stuffed pasta has you craving more cozy and creative dinners, check out these reader favorites from ChefAlchemy:
- Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a one-pot wonder.
- Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole loaded with cheesy richness.
- Cheesesteak Tortellini Bliss if you love bold, saucy flavors.
- Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a fast weeknight fix.
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni that blends juicy chicken with pasta perfection.
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Festive Christmas Stuffed Pasta
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Looking for a show-stopping dish for your holiday dinner? This Festive Christmas Stuffed Pasta is packed with creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and festive spices, all rolled in soft pasta sheets and baked in a bubbling marinara sauce. It’s an easy dinner idea that feels gourmet, perfect for special occasions or as a cozy, healthy snack alternative. Whether you’re planning your Christmas menu, exploring new dinner ideas, or want a comforting yet elegant easy recipe—this stuffed pasta delivers serious flavor and stunning presentation.
Ingredients
15 oz ricotta cheese
10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1 large egg
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 pinch nutmeg
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce
10–12 fresh lasagna sheets (or softened no-boil sheets)
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
½ small onion, finely chopped (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, spinach, egg, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create the filling.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
3. Place filling along one edge of each pasta sheet and roll tightly. Cut in half if needed.
4. Arrange rolls seam side down in the prepared baking dish.
5. Pour remaining marinara over the rolls. Sprinkle mozzarella and extra Parmesan on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs and serving.
Notes
For an extra festive touch, add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the filling.
Letting the dish rest before serving helps the rolls hold together and enhances flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: stuffed pasta, holiday recipe, Christmas pasta, vegetarian dinner, easy baked pasta
