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Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells: A Heartwarming Veggie Delight

Discover the delightful taste of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a comforting vegetarian dish perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Cook al dente.
For the Cheese Filling
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Opt for low-fat for lighter version.
  • ½ cup Shredded Mozzarella Can substitute with provolone or dairy-free cheese.
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese Grated pecorino is an alternative.
  • 1 large Egg For vegan option, use a flax egg.
For the Spinach Mixture
  • 6 oz Fresh Spinach Frozen works too; drain thoroughly.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Can use vegetable oil or unsalted butter.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can substitute.
For the Marinara
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • ½ tsp Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13 baking dish

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions for about 8–10 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain the shells and lay them out on a clean kitchen towel to cool slightly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and a beaten egg. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  3. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, then toss in the fresh spinach. Cook the spinach for about 2–3 minutes until it wilts down. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before mixing it into the cheese filling.
  4. Once the spinach has cooled, fold it into the ricotta mixture. Season the filling with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to your liking.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9"x13" baking dish.
  6. Carefully take each cooked pasta shell and fill it with approximately 2 tablespoons of the spinach and ricotta filling. Arrange the stuffed shells open-side up in the prepared baking dish, then spoon the remaining marinara sauce over them.
  7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Once done, remove from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1stuffed shellCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 590mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

These stuffed shells are a comforting vegetarian choice for family gatherings and are perfect for meal prep.

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