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Comfort food is often synonymous with warmth, familiarity, and a sense of home. It is the kind of food that wraps you in a cozy embrace, turning mealtime into a joyful experience. Among the myriad of options available, Cheesy Delight: Quick Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells stands out as a quintessential example of hearty and satisfying cuisine. This dish effortlessly combines the rich flavors of creamy ricotta cheese with the vibrant freshness of spinach, all enveloped in a tender pasta shell. It’s a delightful choice for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even a comforting weeknight meal when you need something quick yet impressive.

Quick Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Delight: Quick Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This hearty dish beautifully combines creamy ricotta cheese with nutritious spinach, all encased in tender jumbo pasta shells. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it's both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. Discover a recipe that balances deliciousness and nutrition, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Make mealtime a joyful experience with this delightful comfort dish!
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Ingredients
  

12 large jumbo pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, beaten

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook as per the package instructions, ensuring they are slightly undercooked (al dente) to avoid mushiness when baking. Once cooked, drain the pasta shells and set aside to cool slightly.

    Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach (or thawed and drained frozen spinach), shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, cohesive filling.

      Preheat the Oven: While the filling is being prepared, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot when you're ready to bake.

        Stuff the Shells: Take each cooled pasta shell and fill it generously with the ricotta and spinach mixture using a spoon or a piping bag for neatness. Arrange the filled shells in a baking dish with the seam side facing up to hold the filling securely.

          Add Sauce: Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them completely. Set aside the remaining sauce to serve alongside the dish later for an extra flavor boost.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap the heat and moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with a golden finish.

              Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. For a fresh touch, garnish with basil leaves if desired. Serve hot, accompanied by the reserved marinara sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

                Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 4

                  Presentation Tips: For an elegant presentation, serve the stuffed shells on a large platter, garnished with extra basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of olive oil can enhance the dish’s richness and visual appeal.