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When it comes to comforting meals that bring people together, few dishes can rival the allure of Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This Italian-inspired recipe combines jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich, creamy mixture of spinach and ricotta cheese, all topped with a luscious marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also warms the heart, making it a go-to choice for family dinners, casual gatherings, and even festive occasions.

Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the comfort of Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a heartwarming Italian dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy blend of ricotta and nutrient-rich spinach, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Easy to make and deliciously versatile, this dish caters to all palates, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Enjoy a meal that's as nutritious as it is satisfying.
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 large egg, lightly beaten

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (a mix of oregano, basil, etc.)

Salt and black pepper to taste

3 cups marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your dish is assembled.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the grated Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, along with salt and pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, homogenous filling.

        Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked shell and gently fill it with the spinach and ricotta mixture. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a neater and easier way to stuff them.

          Layer with Sauce: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange each stuffed shell seam side up in the dish, ensuring they are well spaced. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, making sure they are generously coated.

            Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the stuffed shells to create a deliciously cheesy crust.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. Afterwards, remove the foil for the final baking stage and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and turns a lovely golden brown color.

                Garnish and Serve: After removing the dish from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes to set. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Dig in and enjoy your sumptuous cheesy stuffed shells!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 4