Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells Bake

Welcome to the delightful realm of cheesy spinach stuffed shells, a comforting dish that seamlessly blends flavors and textures into a satisfying meal. This recipe isn’t just a feast for the taste buds; it’s also a visually appealing dish that brings warmth and joy to family dinners and gatherings. Stuffed pasta shells are a wonderful way to showcase the richness of creamy cheeses and the vibrant green of spinach, creating a culinary experience that is both indulgent and wholesome.

Discover the joy of cheesy spinach stuffed shells, a comforting and visually stunning dish perfect for family dinners. This recipe blends creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and nutritious spinach into large pasta shells that cradle all the flavors beautifully. Easy to customize and packed with essential vitamins, it's a satisfying meal that brings everyone together. Elevate your dinner experience with this delightful bake that promises to be a new family favorite!

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Ingredients

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

3 cups marinara sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Spinach Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, egg, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Fill the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a spoonful of the spinach mixture and carefully stuff each shell. Place the stuffed shells seam side up in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Add the Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Make sure they are well covered. Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese over the top for an irresistible cheesy crust.

Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your cheesy, comforting meal!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 1 hr | 4-6 servings