Delicious Stuffed Shells Recipe

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Introduction

Master the art of making delicious Stuffed Shells with this easy-to-follow recipe. Tender pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs, then baked to perfection in a flavorful marinara sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients for Stuffed Shells

For the Stuffed Shells:

• 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 cup chopped spinach, cooked and squeezed dry
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Stuffed Shells

1. Cook the Pasta Shells:

• Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

1. Make the Marinara Sauce:

• In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

1. Assemble and Bake the Stuffed Shells:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
• Fill each cooked pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the ricotta-spinach mixture and place them in the baking dish.
• Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering evenly.
• Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.

1. Bake and Serve:

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

About the Main Ingredients

• Pasta Shells: Provide a hearty base for the creamy ricotta and spinach filling.
• Ricotta Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess to the filling.
• Spinach: Offers nutritional value and a pop of color, enhancing the flavor profile of the dish.
• Marinara Sauce: Infuses the stuffed shells with robust tomato flavor, tying all the ingredients together into a comforting and satisfying meal.

Enjoy these Stuffed Shells as a main course that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete and delicious dinner experience.