Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells is a classic comfort food dish that combines jumbo pasta shells with a creamy spinach and ricotta filling, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for both novice and experienced cooks.

Ingredients

• 1 box jumbo pasta shells
• 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3. In a large bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and spinach mixture.
5. Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish and top with the remaining marinara sauce.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Meat Lover’s Stuffed Shells: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey to the spinach and cheese filling for a heartier version.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free ricotta cheese and vegan mozzarella to make this dish vegan-friendly.
• Spicy Spinach Stuffed Shells: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the marinara sauce to give it a spicy kick.
• Additional Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 45-50 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
• Reheating: To reheat, place leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make the filling ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the spinach and ricotta filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before stuffing the shells.
2. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, fresh spinach can be used. Sauté it until wilted, chop it finely, and drain any excess water before mixing it into the filling.
3. Can I add meat to the filling? Yes, adding cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage will make this dish even heartier.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese? You can experiment with different cheeses like provolone, Gouda, or a mixture of Italian cheeses to customize the flavor.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free? No, jumbo pasta shells contain gluten. However, you can use gluten-free pasta shells if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
6. Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
7. Can I make the sauce from scratch? Absolutely! Homemade marinara sauce can replace store-bought for a fresher taste.
8. Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe? While jumbo shells are traditional, you can use manicotti or other large pasta tubes for the stuffing.
9. Can I make this recipe without eggs? Yes, the recipe can be made without eggs. The filling will still hold together, though it may have a slightly different texture.
10. Can I double the recipe? Yes, this recipe can be easily doubled for a larger group. You may need a bigger baking dish to accommodate the extra stuffed shells.

Conclusion

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the richness of cheese and the healthy goodness of spinach. With its creamy filling, savory marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, this dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit different tastes. Whether you make it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish will quickly become a favorite!

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