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To create the perfect Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells, it’s essential to understand the key ingredients that contribute to the dish's flavor and nutritional value. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.

Easy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells – A Healthy Veggie Dinner

Dive into this delicious and easy recipe for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells! Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish features jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a creamy ricotta and fresh spinach mixture, topped with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella. It's an impressive yet simple meal that's sure to please everyone at the table. With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can have a comforting Italian feast ready in no time. Don't forget the fresh basil for that perfect touch!
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

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

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Shells: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well incorporated.

        Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked shell and fill it generously with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Place each stuffed shell seam side up in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

          Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they're nicely covered. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

              Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4