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Stuffed Shells Pasta

Easy Cheesy Stuffed Shells Pasta for Your Cozy Nights

This Easy Cheesy Stuffed Shells Pasta combines comfort and nutrition, making it an ideal family dinner choice.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 12 jumbo shells jumbo pasta shells choose these large shells to hold the delicious filling perfectly.
For the Filling
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese this creamy cheese provides a smooth base for the filling.
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese the melty goodness that adds a delightful stretch to each bite!
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese gives the filling a salty, rich flavor that enhances the overall cheese blend.
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped a nutritious addition that adds color and boosts health benefits!
  • 1 large egg acts as a binding agent for the filling to keep it all together.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced brings a wonderful aroma and flavor to the cheese mixture.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning a blend of herbs that truly elevates the flavors of your Stuffed Shells Pasta.
  • ½ teaspoon salt enhances the flavors of the cheese and spinach.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper adds a subtle hint of heat for depth of flavor.
For the Sauce and Topping
  • 2 cups marinara sauce this savory sauce envelops the shells and adds a burst of flavor.
  • 1 bunch fresh parsley for garnish, adds a pop of color and fresh taste right before serving.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • baking dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spoon or piping bag

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Shells Pasta
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them for about 8 minutes until they reach an al dente texture. Once cooked, promptly drain the shells in a colander and lay them out on a baking sheet to cool, ensuring they don’t stick together.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese (reserving the remaining for topping), Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, the large egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix this delightful filling until it's smooth and creamy, and set it aside.
  3. Using a spoon or piping bag, gently fill each cooled jumbo pasta shell with the prepared cheese mixture, ensuring each shell is generously filled without overstuffing.
  4. Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Carefully arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in a single layer.
  5. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the arranged shells, covering them well. Then, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese on top.
  6. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven set to 375°F. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. After removing the dish from the oven, let the Stuffed Shells Pasta cool slightly. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Store leftover Stuffed Shells Pasta in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage up to 3 months.

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