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Classic Stuffed Shells

  • Author: Lilly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Serves 6
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

Classic Stuffed Shells are a comforting Italian dish featuring creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, topped with rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 12 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside on parchment paper to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
  4. Take each cooled shell and fill it with about two tablespoons of the cheesy mixture. Place stuffed shells seam side up in a baking dish coated with marinara sauce.
  5. Pour additional marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
  6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with extra marinara if desired.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (approx. 250g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: - Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option. - Add cooked ground turkey or chicken for extra protein. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.