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If you're on the lookout for a comforting and satisfying dish that is both easy to prepare and impressive enough for guests, look no further than Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This delightful recipe combines jumbo pasta shells with a creamy filling of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce. It's a meal that brings the warmth of home cooking to your table, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Indulge in these Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells for a delicious and comforting meal! Perfect for dinner or a cozy family gathering, this recipe combines jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella. Topped with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of cheese, they’re baked to perfection and ready to impress. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, these shells are sure to become a favorite at your table!

Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese, divided

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 cups marinara sauce

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

        Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cooked pasta shell with the spinach and ricotta filling.

          Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in the dish.

            Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

              Bake the Shells: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6 portions