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Welcome to the delightful world of Italian cuisine! Stuffed pasta has long been a cherished comfort food, celebrated for its versatility and ability to bring people together. The 30-Minute Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells recipe is an ideal solution for busy weeknight dinners, combining convenience with nutrition. Packed with the goodness of spinach and rich cheeses, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also accessible to cooks of all skill levels. In this article, we will explore the essential ingredients, detailed preparation steps, and some serving suggestions that will make this dish a favorite in your household.

30-Minute Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells

Discover the joy of Italian cooking with this 30-Minute Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines the goodness of spinach and rich cheeses in large pasta shells, making it both nutritious and delicious. Simple to prepare, it’s ideal for cooks of any skill level. Follow easy steps to create a comforting meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Elevate your dinner routine with this quick and satisfying recipe!
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Ingredients
  

20 large pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Shells: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

    Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.

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

        Stuff the Shells: Spread about 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Take each cooked shell and fill it generously with the spinach and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.

          Add Sauce and Cheese: Once all shells are filled and in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

              Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings