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Cheesy Delight: Creamy Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells is a mouthwatering dish that combines creamy textures with a burst of cheesy flavor, making it a standout option for any meal. This recipe features large pasta shells generously filled with a rich mixture of cheeses and fresh spinach, offering both comfort and nutrition. The dish is perfect for various occasions, from cozy family dinners to festive potlucks, where it is sure to impress guests with its delightful presentation and taste.

Creamy Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells

Discover the comforting flavors of Creamy Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells, a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a rich blend of ricotta, cottage cheese, and fresh spinach, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it's also nutritious, offering a delicious way to enjoy a meal that both satisfies cravings and nourishes the body. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks!
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

5 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup cottage cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (with extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing them until the onion turns translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

        Make the Cheese Filling: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, the egg, Italian seasoning, and the sautéed spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

          Stuff the Shells: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and spinach filling. Arrange the filled shells in the baking dish with their open sides facing up.

            Top it Off: After all the shells are filled, pour the remaining marinara sauce over them, ensuring they are well covered. Finish by sprinkling extra shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

              Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Serve and Garnish: Allow the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven. If you like, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving to add a splash of color and flavor.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                    30 minutes | 1 hour | 4-6 servings

                      Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed shells in individual bowls, drizzled with extra marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil for an inviting look.