Teresa's Recipes
Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells, a delightful Italian-American dish that marries the sweetness of tender crab meat with the earthy richness of spinach and a blend of creamy cheeses. This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or an elegant dinner party, offering a touch of sophistication with every bite. Originating from the Italian tradition of stuffed pasta, these shells have become a beloved staple in many households, showcasing the versatility of pasta in various cuisines.
Ingredients
- 12-16 shells Jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup, cooked and flaked Crab meat
- 1 cup, thawed and drained Frozen spinach
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 1 cup, shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 1, beaten Egg
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 cups, store-bought or homemade Marinara sauce
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4-6
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Sugar: 6g
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, thawed spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell generously with the crab and spinach mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Once all the shells are stuffed, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring all shells are covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot!
Tips
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- You can substitute fresh spinach for the frozen spinach if desired; just sauté it briefly before adding to the mixture.
- Pair these shells with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.