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Decadent Spinach-Stuffed Shells

Decadent Spinach-Stuffed Shells
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Decadent Spinach-Stuffed Shells are a comforting and creamy baked pasta dish filled with a luscious mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, spinach, and aromatic herbs. This recipe perfectly balances rich, cheesy textures with fresh, vibrant flavors, making it ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. The tender jumbo pasta shells are stuffed, topped with tomato sauce and extra cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells

Spinach Filling

  • 10 ounces fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce and Topping

  • 2 cups tomato sauce (marinara or marinara-based)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Herbs & Garnishes

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Pasta Shells: Boil the jumbo pasta shells in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent shells from sticking together.
  2. Prepare the Spinach Filling: In a sauté pan, cook fresh spinach with minced garlic and chopped onion until wilted and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine the spinach mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly combined.
  3. Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, generously fill each cooled pasta shell with the creamy spinach and cheese mixture. Ensure shells are fully packed but not overfilled or bursting.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange all stuffed shells evenly in the dish. Cover the shells with the remaining tomato sauce, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta; al dente shells hold their shape better during baking.
  • Drain spinach thoroughly to avoid a runny filling.
  • Mix cheeses well for a smooth and creamy filling.
  • Fresh basil or parsley added after baking brighten the flavors.
  • Let the baked shells rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to set and ease plating.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach stuffed shells, baked pasta shells, ricotta spinach shells, cheesy stuffed shells, vegetarian stuffed shells

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/decadent-spinach-stuffed-shells/