Baked Spinach Stuffed Shells

A key component in making your Cheesy Spinach Delight Stuffed Shells truly irresistible is the cheese topping. To create that golden, bubbly crust that everyone loves, follow these steps:

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy Spinach Delight Stuffed Shells, a perfect blend of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella wrapped in jumbo pasta shells. This nutritious twist on a classic dish is easy to prepare and great for family dinners or entertaining guests. Follow step-by-step instructions to create a satisfying meal topped with marinara sauce and a bubbly cheese crust. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dish that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

12 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, beaten

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Fill the Shells: Take the cooled pasta shells and carefully fill each shell with a generous spoonful of the spinach filling. Place filled shells seam-side up in a greased 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.

Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them completely. Be sure to spread it to the edges of the dish to prevent sticking.

Top with Cheese: Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the top of the marinara sauce to create a delicious cheesy crust.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray) and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your savory, cheesy spinach stuffed shells!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4