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Jumbo pasta shells are the backbone of this recipe. Their large, curved shape is perfect for holding generous amounts of filling, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the last. When selecting your pasta, look for high-quality brands that maintain their shape during cooking and have a slightly ridged texture to help the sauce cling beautifully. Cooking these shells to the perfect al dente texture is crucial, as they will continue to cook in the oven and should not become mushy.

Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Indulge in these Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells for a comforting meal that's perfect for any day of the week! Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy spin on classic ricotta, fresh spinach, and rich cheeses, all smothered in marinara sauce. Ready in just 50 minutes, this dish serves 6 and is a hit with the whole family. Garnish with fresh basil for an extra touch. Try it tonight for a delicious, cheesy delight!
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

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

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

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

      Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

        Stuff the Shells: Take each pasta shell and fill it generously with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Place the stuffed shells open side up in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

          Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring that all of them are well coated.

            Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the marinara sauce.

              Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve warm.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6