Indulge in a culinary delight that combines the comforting embrace of Italian cuisine with the vibrant freshness of spinach! Our Creamed Spinach Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they are an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Imagine perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells, generously filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh spinach, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome and satisfying option for any dinner table. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a medium skillet, sauté the chopped fresh spinach over medium heat until wilted and excess moisture has evaporated, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, wilted spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to prevent shells from sticking.
- Using a spoon, carefully fill each pasta shell with the spinach and cheese mixture, ensuring they are generously stuffed.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to slightly brown.
- Let the stuffed shells rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve hot.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the shells.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses to enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference!
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Since the shells will continue to cook in the oven, make sure to boil them until they are just al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist on the filling.
- Add Some Spice: If you like a little kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mixing in some sautéed garlic with the spinach.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the stuffed shells to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the filling set, making them easier to serve and eat.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top before serving can elevate the dish's presentation and flavor.Enjoy crafting this delicious recipe that will surely become a family favorite!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
