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Savory Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells are not just a dish; they are a culinary experience that embodies comfort and satisfaction. Perfectly sized pasta shells are generously filled with a rich and flavorful mixture of seasoned sausage and vibrant spinach, all topped with a luscious marinara sauce and gooey cheese. This dish appeals to both the eyes and the palate, making it an irresistible option for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of hearty sausage, fresh spinach, and melty cheese creates a balance of flavors that is both savory and satisfying.

Savory Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Discover the deliciousness of Savory Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells! This comforting dish features large pasta shells filled with a flavorful mix of seasoned sausage and fresh spinach, all topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these stuffed shells are versatile and can be adapted for various dietary needs. Embrace the joy of cooking and share a satisfying meal with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb Italian sausage (removed from casing)

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it's hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Gently add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they reach an al dente texture. Once finished, drain the shells carefully and set aside.

      Sauté Vegetables: While the shells cool, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

        Cook the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, using a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook the sausage for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. If needed, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

          Add Spinach: Stir the chopped spinach into the sausage mixture, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach has wilted. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

            Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled sausage and spinach mixture with the ricotta, mozzarella, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well blended.

              Stuff the Shells: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Carefully open each jumbo shell and fill it with the sausage and spinach filling, arranging them in the dish with the open side facing up.

                Top with Sauce and Cheese: After filling all the shells, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese on top.

                  Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.

                    Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. For a fresh touch, garnish with basil leaves if desired. Serve the stuffed shells hot and savor the delicious flavors!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 1 hr | 4-6 servings