Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare 1-2 large glass baking dishes by spreading a one-inch layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom. If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add extra sauce. This layer of sauce will prevent the pasta from sticking to the dish and infuse the shells with flavor as they bake.

Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil the pasta shells for approximately 11 minutes, or until they are tender but still firm (al dente). Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool. Adding a pinch of salt and a drizzle of oil to the boiling water will help prevent the shells from sticking together.

Prepare the Filling

While the pasta is boiling, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the spinach. Sauté the onions and garlic in a small pan over medium-high heat until they are soft and fragrant. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, and all the herbs and spices. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the mixture and stir well. For a fluffier filling, gently whisk 1-2 eggs and fold them into the mixture.

Stuff the Shells

Spoon the prepared filling into each pasta shell, ensuring they are generously filled. Place each stuffed shell into the baking dish on top of the spaghetti sauce. Arrange the shells closely together to keep them upright and prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.

Top with Cheese and Bake

If desired, drizzle extra spaghetti sauce over the tops of the shells or leave them bare to showcase the filling. Sprinkle a generous layer of freshly grated mozzarella cheese over the shells, followed by an additional sprinkling of parmesan cheese for extra flavor. For a bit of heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. Cover the dish lightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the sauce is bubbling. If the cheese has not fully melted, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once your Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are perfectly baked, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy! These stuffed shells are best served hot, straight out of the oven. Pair them with a fresh green salad and some garlic bread for a complete Italian feast that will delight your family and guests. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick and easy meal.