Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Name: Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Jumbo Shells
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: {'ingredient': 'Jumbo pasta shells', 'amount': '12-15 shells'}; {'ingredient': 'Ricotta cheese', 'amount': '15 ounces'}; {'ingredient': 'Fresh spinach', 'amount': '2 cups, cooked and chopped'}; {'ingredient': 'Egg', 'amount': '1, beaten'}; {'ingredient': 'Grated Parmesan cheese', 'amount': '1/2 cup'}; {'ingredient': 'Shredded mozzarella cheese', 'amount': '1 1/2 cups, divided'}; {'ingredient': 'Marinara sauce', 'amount': '2 cups'}; {'ingredient': 'Salt', 'amount': '1/2 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Black pepper', 'amount': '1/4 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Dried oregano', 'amount': '1 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Garlic powder', 'amount': '1/2 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Fresh basil', 'amount': 'for garnish'}

Indulge in these Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Jumbo Shells, a delightful Italian classic that marries creamy ricotta with vibrant spinach, all enveloped in tender pasta shells. Topped with a rich marinara sauce and bubbly mozzarella, this dish is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The tradition of stuffing pasta dates back centuries in Italy, symbolizing the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. Each bite is a celebration of flavors and textures, promising to transport you straight to the heart of Italian cuisine.

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

Jumbo pasta shells (12-15 shells)
Ricotta cheese (15 ounces)
Fresh spinach (2 cups, cooked and chopped)
Egg (1, beaten)
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup)
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided)
Marinara sauce (2 cups)
Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
Fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the 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 ricotta cheese, cooked and chopped spinach, beaten egg, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture, ensuring they are generously filled. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, opening side up.
Once all shells are stuffed, pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top, ensuring each shell is well-coated.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the marinara sauce.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or additional Parmesan, if desired.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4-6 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 20 minutes • Cook Time: 45 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 20g • Carbs: 50g • Protein: 25g • Sodium: 600mg • Sugar: 6g

Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

Instructions

Dietary Information

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