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Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells


  • Author: emily
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A comforting dish of large pasta shells stuffed with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 large pasta shells
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped or 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 egg (optional)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Boil the pasta shells in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  4. Spoon the cheese mixture into each pasta shell and arrange them in a baking dish.
  5. Pour marinara sauce over the shells and top with remaining mozzarella.
  6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, include fresh herbs in the ricotta mixture. This dish can be prepared a day in advance for convenience.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: stuffed shells, spinach, ricotta, pasta, vegetarian, Italian, family dinner, comfort food