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Delve into the delightful world of comfort food with our Spinach & Ricotta Dream Shells. This recipe beautifully combines the creamy richness of ricotta and cream cheese with the earthy flavor of fresh spinach, all encased in tender jumbo pasta shells. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a healthy dose of greens. In this article, we will explore the origins of this dish, the health benefits of its key ingredients, and a step-by-step guide to creating this mouthwatering meal.

Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Shell Bake

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Spinach & Ricotta Dream Shells with this delightful recipe. Combining creamy ricotta and fresh spinach stuffed inside tender jumbo pasta shells, it's a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Explore the origins, health benefits, and easy preparation steps to create this satisfying meal. Elevate your dining experience with delicious flavors, nutritional goodness, and a dash of nostalgia. Join us on this culinary adventure!
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Ingredients
  

12 large jumbo pasta shells

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

10 oz fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

      Add Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, and cook until wilted (if using fresh) or heated through (if using frozen). Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and mix well.

        Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with ricotta, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Mix until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

          Stuff the Shells: Carefully spoon the filling into each cooked jumbo shell, being generous but not overflowing.

            Layer in Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the filled pasta shells on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.

              Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent burning the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                  Serve: Once baked, let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 50 mins | 4-6 servings