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Baked Ricotta Stuffed Shells

This delightful dish features pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and spinach, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, bringing warmth and joy to any family gathering.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce

  • 20 large large pasta shells These are the stars of the show!
  • 2 cups marinara sauce A rich, flavorful sauce that brings everything together.

Cheese Filling

  • 15 oz ricotta cheese Provides a delicate, rich flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Makes the dish extra inviting.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a wonderful, nutty flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced for aromatic punch.

Vegetables and Seasoning

  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped Sneaks in some greens!
  • to taste salt and pepper Just a pinch for flavor!
  • fresh basil for garnish Optional, adds fresh taste.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped spinach, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Assembly

  • Stuff each pasta shell generously with the ricotta mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.
  • Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
  • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Baking

  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving

  • Once baked, garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. You can replace spinach with other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms, and adding fresh herbs enhances flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 890mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g
Keyword Baked Ricotta Stuffed Shells, Cheesy Dish, Comfort Food, Family Recipe, Pasta
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