Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Name: Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: {'ingredient': 'Jumbo pasta shells', 'amount': '12 shells'}; {'ingredient': 'Fresh spinach', 'amount': '4 cups, chopped'}; {'ingredient': 'Ricotta cheese', 'amount': '15 ounces'}; {'ingredient': 'Parmesan cheese', 'amount': '1/2 cup, grated'}; {'ingredient': 'Egg', 'amount': '1, large'}; {'ingredient': 'Garlic', 'amount': '2 cloves, minced'}; {'ingredient': 'Salt', 'amount': '1 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Black pepper', 'amount': '1/2 teaspoon'}; {'ingredient': 'Marinara sauce', 'amount': '2 cups, store-bought or homemade'}; {'ingredient': 'Mozzarella cheese', 'amount': '1 cup, shredded'}; {'ingredient': 'Fresh basil', 'amount': 'For garnishing'}

Indulge in the comforting embrace of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a delightful Italian-American classic that takes you on a culinary journey. These jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy, herb-infused spinach and ricotta mixture, topped with rich marinara sauce and a bubbly layer of melted mozzarella. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish brings warmth and joy to any table. Historically, stuffed pasta dishes have roots in Italy, where families would create hearty meals from simple ingredients, making them a beloved staple around the world.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Jumbo pasta shells (12 shells)
Fresh spinach (4 cups, chopped)
Ricotta cheese (15 ounces)
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
Egg (1, large)
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Salt (1 teaspoon)
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
Marinara sauce (2 cups, store-bought or homemade)
Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded)
Fresh basil (for garnishing)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly 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 spinach and ricotta filling and place them seam-side up in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the dish.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 20 minutes • Cook Time: 45 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 22g • Carbs: 48g • Protein: 20g • Sodium: 850mg • Sugar: 6g

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Instructions

Dietary Information

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