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Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe

Decadent Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe You’ll Love

This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe combines gooey cheese and pasta, creating pure happiness.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 shells Jumbo Pasta Shells Cook until al dente.
For the Filling
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Substitute cottage cheese for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Opt for vegan cheese for dairy-free.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan substitute.
  • 1 large Egg Consider flax eggs for a vegan choice.
  • 2 cups Chopped Spinach Fresh or drained frozen works beautifully.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh or dried work perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme can be used.
For Assembly
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Any neutral oil can serve as a substitute.
  • to taste Salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • to taste Black Pepper Adjust based on preference.
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Use store-bought for convenience or homemade.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Cooking the Dish
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water, add jumbo pasta shells, and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and cool on a towel.
  2. In a bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg until smooth.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds, add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Let cool and mix with ricotta.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish. Fill each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and place in the dish.
  5. Cover stuffed shells with more marinara and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This recipe is flexible; you can swap cheeses or add vegetables to your preference. Perfect for dinner gatherings or prepping in advance for busy nights.

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