Cheesy Spinach Shells (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
24 uncooked large pasta shells.
02 -
Pinch of salt and drizzle of oil (to prevent sticking and season the water).
03 -
48 oz spaghetti sauce (or as needed).
04 -
2 cups diced onion (white or yellow).
05 -
3-4 cloves garlic (smashed and minced).
06 -
5 oz fresh baby spinach (chopped).
07 -
16 oz whole milk ricotta cheese.
08 -
1 heaping cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (approx. 2 oz).
09 -
1 tsp Italian seasoning blend (salt-free Mrs. Dash recommended).
10 -
1 tsp garlic powder.
11 -
1 tsp dried parsley.
12 -
1 tsp dried basil.
13 -
1/2-1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes.
14 -
½ tsp dried oregano.
15 -
Salt and pepper (to taste).
16 -
1-2 large eggs (for a fluffier ricotta filling).
17 -
1-2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese.
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
02 -
Prepare 1-2 large glass baking dishes by spreading a one-inch layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom. Add extra sauce if you prefer saucier shells.
03 -
Boil the pasta shells for about 11 minutes or until tender/al dente. Drain and set aside.
04 -
While the pasta is boiling, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the spinach. Measure out the remaining ingredients to make assembly easier.
05 -
Sauté the onions and garlic together on medium-high heat in a small pan.
06 -
In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, and all the herbs and spices. Add the sautéed veggies and mix well. For a thicker filling, gently whisk 1-2 eggs and fold them into the mixture.
07 -
Spoon the filling into the pasta shells and place each shell in the prepared baking dish.
08 -
If desired, drizzle extra sauce over the shells or leave them bare to showcase the filling.
09 -
Top with mozzarella cheese and a sprinkling of parmesan cheese if desired. For extra flavor, add additional red pepper flakes and dried basil on top of the cheese.
10 -
Cover the dish lightly with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the sauce is bubbling. If the cheese has not melted, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes as needed.
# Notes:
01 -
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are a comforting and delicious Italian dish perfect for any dinner table. These shells are packed with a creamy ricotta and spinach filling, topped with a generous layer of mozzarella, and baked to perfection in a rich spaghetti sauce. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings.