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If you’re on the lookout for a dish that combines comfort with nutrition, look no further than Spinach & Ricotta Delightful Shells. This delightful meal showcases the best of Italian cuisine, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make it a favorite for many. The satisfying combination of creamy ricotta, nutrient-rich spinach, and savory herbs creates a dish that not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body.

Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Indulge in a comforting dish with these Spinach & Ricotta Delightful Shells! Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, fresh spinach, and herbs, then bathed in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this easy recipe comes together in under an hour. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil before serving for a touch of elegance. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

2 cups marinara sauce

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 boiling salted water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

      Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup), Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

        Stuff the Shells: Take a shell and fill it with about 2 tablespoons of the spinach and ricotta filling. Repeat this with all shells.

          Layer the Marinara Sauce: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, gently placing them in a single layer.

            Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                Serve: Once done, take the shells out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6