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Decadent Spinach-Stuffed Shells

Decadent Spinach-Stuffed Shells
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Decadent Spinach-Stuffed Shells combine tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich and creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh sautéed spinach. This comforting baked dish is perfect for cozy dinners, entertaining guests, or meal prepping. Easy to customize and make ahead, it offers a luscious texture and vibrant Italian flavors wrapped in an elegant presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Sauce

  • 12–15 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Filling

  • 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta Shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water for about 8-10 minutes, until just tender but still firm (al dente). Drain carefully, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside to dry.
  2. Sauté the Spinach and Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  3. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sautéed spinach mixture, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the filling is creamy and well combined.
  4. Stuff the Shells: Carefully spoon the cheese and spinach filling into each pasta shell, filling generously but not overstuffing to prevent breaking.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells neatly on top. Cover with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, uncovering during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to ensure shells maintain their shape during baking.
  • Drain spinach well after sautéing to avoid watery filling.
  • Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano for brighter, more vibrant flavor.
  • Including the egg in the filling helps it hold together, keeping shells intact.
  • Cover the dish while baking to keep shells moist, then uncover to achieve a golden cheese topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach stuffed shells, creamy pasta shells, baked pasta, vegetarian Italian dish, ricotta spinach shells, comfort food, make-ahead meal

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/decadent-spinach-stuffed-shells/