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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to the warmth and satisfaction of stuffed pasta. Among the many variations of stuffed pasta, Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells hold a special place in the hearts of home cooks and food lovers alike. These delightful jumbo pasta shells, generously filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and nutrient-rich spinach, not only deliver on flavor but also offer a nutritious and hearty option for family dinners and gatherings.

Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells – A Healthy Veggie Dinner

Discover the perfect weeknight dinner with these Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells! This delicious recipe combines jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It's simple to make and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. Great for meal prep or a cozy dinner, serve with fresh basil for an added touch. Perfectly cheesy and satisfying, this dish is sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

12 jumbo pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or ½ cup frozen, thawed and well-drained)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.

      Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully fill it with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta and spinach mixture. Place the filled shells seam-side up in a greased baking dish.

        Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. This will help prevent the shells from drying out during baking.

          Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta shells to get a cheesy, bubbly finish.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

              Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4