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Delve into the heart of Italian cuisine with our Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells Delight, a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. This recipe marries the rich flavors of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, enveloped in large pasta shells and baked to perfection with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. As you savor each bite, you are not just indulging in a delicious meal but also partaking in a culinary tradition that has roots in Italian households for generations.

Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells! This delightful recipe combines large pasta shells filled with a flavorful mix of fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, and savory spices, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make. Bake it to golden perfection, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

12 large pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, beaten

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay the shells on a baking sheet to cool slightly.

      Prepare Spinach Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool.

        Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and the sautéed spinach. Stir until well combined.

          Stuff the Shells: Carefully take each pasta shell and fill it with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a teaspoon or a piping bag for easier handling.

            Assemble the Dish: Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top, and then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.

              Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells.

                Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

                  Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4