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Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

This Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe features large pasta shells filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It's a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and is simple enough for a weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot for boiling pasta
  • 1 colander for draining pasta
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 oven

Ingredients
  

  • 12 large pasta shells
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Divided into two portions.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • as needed olive oil Optional, for sautéing.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Boil a large pot of water, adding a pinch of salt. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Fill each cooked pasta shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture, carefully placing the filled shells in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

You can sauté the spinach in olive oil before adding it to the cheese mixture if desired for extra flavor.
Feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano to the filling for additional flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat well in the oven or microwave.