Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
- 18-20 jumbo pasta shells
boil extra in case some break
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic
minced
- 4 cups spinach
- 15 oz. Ricotta
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
grated
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese
shredded and divided
- 2 Tablespoons cream cheese
- 1 egg
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley
to garnish
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- 2
Boil shells in salted water for 1 minute less than al dente, (around 13 minutes, refer to package). Set a timer to avoid overcooking them. Drain once cooked and gently rinse with cold water until the water on the bottom comes out cool. Set aside.
- 3
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. (Optional: Slice the spinach into strips before cooking it if smaller pieces are preferred.)Add the spinach and toss to coat. Cook for about 3 minutes or until the spinach is wilted. Set aside and let cool.
- 4
Place the ricotta in a large bowl and add the seasonings. Use a silicone spatula to stir to combine. Add half of the mozzarella cheese and most of the Parmesan, but reserve a little Parmesan to sprinkle over the top before baking. Add the cream cheese and the egg and stir to combine. Fold in the cooled spinach and garlic.
- 5
Add half of the marinara sauce to the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish (or a round 12-inch oven-safe skillet) Use a spoon to fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place it in the baking dish.
- 6
Add the remaining marinara sauce, then top with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan.
- 7
Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Remove cover and bake for 10 more minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with Garlic Bread with Cheese!
Stuffed Shells
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About this Recipe
Craving the ultimate comfort food that feels both classic and effortlessly elegant? These Stuffed Shells are your answer, delivering a hearty, satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table. This recipe proves that home-cooked Italian-inspired dishes can be both approachable and incredibly flavorful. This recipe elevates humble pasta shells into a luxurious, satisfying meal, thanks to a rich, four-cheese filling featuring creamy ricotta, sharp Parmesan, and gooey mozzarella, brightened by sautéed garlic and classic Italian herbs. The genius of this dish lies in its simplicity and the balance of its ingredients, creating a deeply savory and comforting experience with every bite. You'll love how easy it is to prepare a meal that tastes like it simmered all day. Expect tender, perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells cradling a warm, velvety cheese filling. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of savory garlic, aromatic Italian seasonings like basil and oregano, and a rich marinara sauce. The optional addition of spinach folds in a subtle earthiness, complementing the decadent cheese blend without overpowering it. This dish offers a comforting texture contrast: the soft pasta, the creamy filling, and the bubbly, slightly browned mozzarella on top, all enrobed in a rich tomato sauce. It's a truly comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Customizing these Stuffed Shells is simple and allows you to tailor the dish to your preference. The recipe already offers the flexibility of adding spinach for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition—feel free to adjust the amount or omit it entirely. You can also adjust the amounts of dried basil, oregano, and salt to suit your taste, making the flavor profile uniquely yours. For garlic lovers, don't hesitate to add an extra clove or two to the sauté. These Stuffed Shells are a perfect centerpiece for family dinners, a casual gathering with friends, or a comforting weeknight treat. Serve them with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to sop up every last bit of that delicious marinara sauce.