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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can match the allure of creamy pasta. The very mention of cheesy pasta evokes images of warm family gatherings, laughter echoing around the dinner table, and the delightful aroma of a home-cooked meal wafting through the air. One dish that embodies this comforting experience is the Cheesy Bliss: Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Shells. This recipe invites you to indulge in the rich flavors of ricotta and mozzarella, harmoniously blended with vibrant, fresh spinach. It's a delightful choice for family dinners or social gatherings, promising to satisfy both pasta enthusiasts and those mindful of their health.

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Shells

Indulge in the comforting delight of Cheesy Bliss: Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Shells, a dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With a rich filling of creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and vibrant spinach, each shell offers a satisfying bite. Easy to prepare, this recipe is suitable for all skill levels and dietary preferences. Enjoy the hands-on experience of stuffing pasta, and savor the warmth and joy that this delightful dish brings to your table.
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Ingredients
  

12 large pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup marinara sauce

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to allow it to heat up while you prepare the rest of your dish.

    Cook the pasta shells: In a large pot, fill it with salted water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, gently add the large pasta shells. Cook according to the package directions, which should take about 9-11 minutes, until they are al dente. Carefully drain and set them aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the filling: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, finely chopped spinach, 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, optional red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and creamy.

        Stuff the shells: Take each cooked pasta shell and gently fill it with the creamy spinach and ricotta mixture. You can use a spoon for this or opt for a piping bag for a cleaner and easier filling process.

          Assemble the dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce (about 1 cup) evenly on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Arrange the stuffed pasta shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.

            Bake the dish: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has turned a lovely golden brown.

              Garnish & serve: Once the dish is out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 5 minutes for easier serving. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and flavor before serving.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta shells on a large platter, drizzling any leftover marinara sauce around the edges for an inviting look. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a finishing touch. Enjoy your Cheesy Bliss!