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Stuffed Shells Pasta

Irresistibly Cheesy Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe You'll Love

This Stuffed Shells Pasta recipe features creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and a medley of cheeses that will delight your family.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 20–25 pieces jumbo pasta shells These large shells are perfect for holding all the delicious filling.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing the pasta's flavor during cooking.
For the Filling
  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese Consider using part-skim for a lighter option.
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully, bringing gooey goodness to your stuffed shells.
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses.
  • 1 piece egg Acts as a binding agent to keep the filling together.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach Sautéed and chopped.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley Brightens up the flavor and adds a fresh touch.
  • to taste pepper A dash for seasoning; adjust to personal taste.
For the Sauce and Topping
  • 2 to 2½ cups marinara sauce Choose your favorite brand or homemade.
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese For topping.
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese For topping.
  • to taste red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning Optional for extra flavor.

Equipment

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

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until just al dente, about 9–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
  2. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, egg, sautéed and chopped spinach, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish.
  4. Stuff the Shells: Fill each cooled jumbo pasta shell with the cheese and spinach mixture. Place them open side up in the baking dish.
  5. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the filled shells. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top.
  6. Bake the Shells: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Let It Rest and Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is freezer-friendly and can be prepped ahead of time. Ensure to keep it moist with additional marinara sauce when reheating.

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