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Homemade Stuffed Pasta Shells photo

Stuffed Pasta Shells

Large pasta shells filled with a cheesy spinach ricotta mixture baked in marinara for a comforting family meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 12 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 jar pasta sauce
  • 15 oz whole-milk ricotta
  • 1 large egg
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 1/2 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 clove garlic minced or grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella for topping
  • Italian parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • 13x9 baking dish
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the jar of pasta sauce evenly across the bottom of a 13x9-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, then drain in a colander and keep warm.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella, egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly mixed.
  4. Spoon or pipe the ricotta mixture into each cooked shell, filling them evenly, and arrange the filled shells in the prepared baking dish on top of the sauce.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella over the filled shells.
  6. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest at room temperature for 10 minutes, then garnish with chopped Italian parsley and serve.

Notes

  • Nutrition estimates vary by product and brand.
  • Use whole-milk ricotta for creamier filling.
  • Chop spinach roughly to distribute evenly.
  • Cook shells just until al dente to avoid falling apart when stuffing.
  • Letting the dish rest helps the filling set for easier serving.