Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering Italian-inspired dish that combines the creamy richness of cheese with the vibrant freshness of spinach! These Spinach Feta Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they're a culinary adventure that will transport you straight to a cozy Italian kitchen. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or when you simply want to impress your guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- 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 and prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to prevent shells from sticking.
- Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach and cheese mixture, filling them generously but not overpacking.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, seam side up. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the stuffed shells.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Make sure to cook pasta shells al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Drain and rinse pasta shells with cold water to stop the cooking process and make them easier to handle.
- Don't overstuff the shells - aim for a generous but not overpacked filling.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- If you want a lighter version, you can substitute some of the cheeses with low-fat alternatives.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the final presentation and add a burst of freshness.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
