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Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Nights

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells are comforting, cheesy, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells
For the Cheese Filling
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese opt for full-fat for best flavor
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded, for filling and topping
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
  • 5 ounces fresh spinach thawed and drained if using frozen
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
For the Marinara Sauce
  • 1 cup marinara sauce use quality store-bought or homemade
For Flavor Boosting
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking Dish
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and lay flat to cool.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Let cool, then combine with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and nutmeg.
  4. Spread marinara sauce evenly in the baking dish. Stuff each shell with the filling, seam-side up, and pour remaining marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle with additional mozzarella.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.
  6. Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with basil or parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure spinach is drained well to prevent a watery filling. The recipe can be made ahead of time for convenience.

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