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- 12-15 jumbo pasta shells - 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 large egg, beaten - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade) - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Spinach Feta Stuffed Shells

Cozy up with a plate of creamy spinach feta stuffed shells, a delightful dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends. These large pasta shells are filled with a rich mixture of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs, then baked to bubbly perfection with marinara and melty mozzarella. This recipe is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a deliciously satisfying meal. Dive into the flavors and create lasting memories around the dinner table!

Ingredients
  

20 large pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the shells in a colander and let them cool for a few minutes.

    Prepare the Filling: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the filling is well-blended.

      Preheat the Oven: While preparing the filling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

        Stuff the Shells: Take a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture and carefully fill each pasta shell. Place the filled shells in a greased baking dish, arranging them snugly together for optimal cooking.

          Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are generously covered to keep them moist during baking.

            Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce, creating a delicious cheesy layer.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to protect the cheese from over-browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, golden, and bubbly.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for an added touch of color and flavor.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                    30 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed shells hot on individual plates, drizzled with extra marinara sauce and sprinkled with additional basil for a vibrant finish.