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Cheesy Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This dish combines tender pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. It's a family favorite that not only pleases the palate but also offers a sense of nostalgia, often reminding us of cozy gatherings around the dinner table.

Cheesy Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the cozy comfort of Cheesy Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells, perfect for those chilly fall evenings and festive gatherings. This easy weeknight dinner features plump pasta shells loaded with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, all enveloped in rich marinara sauce and topped with bubbling cheese. It's a heartwarming dish thats both satisfying and nutritious. Try it tonight and make it a family favorite. Save this for later!
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Ingredients
  

24 jumbo pasta shells

1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

1 ½ cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo shells and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Filling: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is creamy.

        Stuff the Shells: Using a small spoon, gently fill each cooked pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta and spinach filling. Be generous but careful not to overstuff. Arrange the filled shells in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, making sure they’re snugly placed.

          Add the Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are fully covered for maximum flavor. Sprinkle a generous amount of extra mozzarella cheese on top to create a delicious cheesy crust.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and has reached a beautiful golden color.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. For an added touch of freshness, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy stuffed shells as a hearty main dish!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | 4 servings