Italian Classics (Print Version)
Ingredients:
01 -
Jumbo Pasta Shells: 18-20, boil extra in case some break.
02 -
Olive Oil: 1-2 tablespoons.
03 -
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
04 -
Spinach: 4 cups, fresh.
05 -
Ricotta Cheese: 15 oz.
06 -
Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated.
07 -
Mozzarella Cheese: 3 cups, shredded and divided.
08 -
Cream Cheese: 2 tablespoons.
09 -
Egg: 1.
10 -
Marinara Sauce: 24 oz.
11 -
Fresh Parsley: To garnish.
12 -
Salt: ½ teaspoon.
13 -
Pepper: ¼ teaspoon.
14 -
Dried Basil: ½ teaspoon.
15 -
Dried Parsley: ½ teaspoon.
16 -
Dried Oregano: ½ teaspoon.
Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Boil shells in salted water for 1 minute less than al dente (around 13 minutes as per package instructions). Drain once cooked and rinse gently with cold water. Set aside.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add spinach, tossing to coat, and cook for 3 minutes or until wilted. Set aside to cool.
03 -
In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, salt, pepper, basil, parsley, and oregano. Add half of the mozzarella cheese, most of the Parmesan (reserving a little for topping), cream cheese, and the egg. Stir to combine, then fold in the cooled spinach and garlic mixture.
04 -
Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place it in the dish.
05 -
Add remaining marinara sauce on top of shells, then sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and reserved Parmesan.
06 -
Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Remove cover and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with garlic bread if desired.
Notes:
01 -
This classic Stuffed Shells recipe combines creamy ricotta, spinach, and a blend of cheeses, all tucked into tender pasta shells and baked with marinara sauce for a comforting Italian meal.
02 -
Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, this dish is easy to make and can be prepared ahead for convenience.
03 -
Serve with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.