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Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Nights

Delight in these Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells, a comforting vegetarian dish perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stuffing
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells They hold the creamy filling perfectly.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Substitute with cottage cheese for fewer calories.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese Adds melty goodness; try provolone for flavor twist.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Enhances taste; use nutritional yeast for vegan option.
  • 10 ounces Fresh Spinach Thawed frozen spinach works well when drained.
  • 1 large Egg Omit for a vegan option or use a flax egg.
For the Marinara Sauce
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Homemade is best.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh or minced; can substitute garlic powder.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Substitute with dried oregano or basil.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be replaced with avocado oil for flavor.
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg Optional but delightful in the filling.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for tasting.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while cooking the shells in a large pot until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and cool.
  2. In a skillet, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add spinach, stirring until wilted for 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Cool.
  3. Combine sautéed spinach and garlic with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg in a bowl. Mix until smooth, adding nutmeg if desired.
  4. Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  5. Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture and arrange in the dish, then pour more marinara sauce over the top.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle additional mozzarella, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes.
  7. Let shells rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

You can prepare these shells up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the fridge until ready to bake.

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