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stuffed shells

Savory Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Nights

Delicious stuffed shells filled with creamy spinach and ricotta, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Make sure to choose large shells for easy and delicious stuffing.
  • 1 tablespoon Extra-virgin Olive Oil Helps prevent pasta shells from sticking together.
For the Filling
  • 5 ounces Fresh Spinach Frozen spinach can be used; drain well.
  • 2 cups Ricotta Cheese The star of the filling.
  • 0.25 cups Pecorino Cheese Adds a nutty saltiness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Grated; adjust based on preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Aromatic touch; can use fresh if available.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Adds a refreshing citrus note.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat; omit for milder taste.
  • 0.75 teaspoon Sea Salt For enhancing flavors.
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper Season to taste.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • Chopped Fresh Parsley For garnish.

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • medium mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Steam the fresh spinach for about 1 minute until wilted, then chop finely.
  3. Cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted water for about 10 minutes until al dente, then drain.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta, pecorino, garlic, oregano, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
  5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  6. Stuff each pasta shell with the filling and place in the baking dish, seam side up.
  7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then serve with additional marinara and chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These stuffed shells can be prepared in advance and are perfect for busy weeknights.

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