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Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells in Marinara

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Tender jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a creamy blend of ricotta cheese and spinach, nestled in a rich marinara sauce and baked under a golden, bubbly layer of mozzarella—this classic Italian comfort dish is perfect for cozy dinners and hearty cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed and chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2½ cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta shells al dente according to package directions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add spinach and cook until wilted (or warm through if using frozen). Set aside to cool.
  3. In a large bowl, mix ricotta, ¾ cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, sautéed spinach, herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a large ovenproof skillet or baking dish.
  5. Fill each shell with the ricotta-spinach mixture and place open side up in the pan.
  6. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells, then top with extra mozzarella cheese.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbling.
  8. Let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off to easily fill the shells.
  • Can be assembled a day ahead and baked when ready to serve.
  • Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://epicrecipebox.com/spinach-ricotta-stuffed-shells-in-marinara/