Desserts

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Ingredients

01 24 uncooked large pasta shells.

02 Pinch of salt and drizzle of oil (to prevent sticking and season the water).

03 48 oz spaghetti sauce (or as needed).

04 2 cups diced onion (white or yellow).

05 3-4 cloves garlic (smashed and minced).

06 5 oz fresh baby spinach (chopped).

07 16 oz whole milk ricotta cheese.

08 1 heaping cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (approx. 2 oz).

09 1 tsp Italian seasoning blend (salt-free Mrs. Dash recommended).

10 1 tsp garlic powder.

11 1 tsp dried parsley.

12 1 tsp dried basil.

13 1/2-1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes.

14 ½ tsp dried oregano.

15 Salt and pepper (to taste).

16 1-2 large eggs (for a fluffier ricotta filling).

17 1-2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese.

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 02

Prepare 1-2 large glass baking dishes by spreading a one-inch layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom. Add extra sauce if you prefer saucier shells.

Step 03

Boil the pasta shells for about 11 minutes or until tender/al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 04

While the pasta is boiling, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the spinach. Measure out the remaining ingredients to make assembly easier.

Step 05

Sauté the onions and garlic together on medium-high heat in a small pan.

Step 06

In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, and all the herbs and spices. Add the sautéed veggies and mix well. For a thicker filling, gently whisk 1-2 eggs and fold them into the mixture.

Step 07

Spoon the filling into the pasta shells and place each shell in the prepared baking dish.

Step 08

If desired, drizzle extra sauce over the shells or leave them bare to showcase the filling.

Step 09

Top with mozzarella cheese and a sprinkling of parmesan cheese if desired. For extra flavor, add additional red pepper flakes and dried basil on top of the cheese.

Step 10

Cover the dish lightly with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the sauce is bubbling. If the cheese has not melted, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes as needed.