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Stuffed pasta serves as a brilliant way to combine various ingredients into a single, harmonious dish. The beauty of this culinary technique lies in its flexibility; you can tailor the fillings to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer a meat-based stuffing or a vegetarian option, the possibilities are endless. In the case of Elegant Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells, spinach takes center stage, showcasing its vibrant color and nutritional prowess. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their vegetable intake while enjoying a delicious meal.

Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Elegant Creamy Spinach Stuffed Shells! This delightful dish combines large pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh spinach, all baked in a rich marinara sauce. It’s not just delicious but also a great way to sneak in nutritious veggies. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, these stuffed shells offer a satisfying blend of taste and nutrition that everyone will enjoy.
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Ingredients
  

20 large pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded, plus extra for topping

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, beaten

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven:

    Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it's ready for baking.

      Cook the Pasta Shells:

        Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain them in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.

          Prepare the Filling:

            In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, the beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until the filling is well-combined and creamy.

              Stuff the Shells:

                Using a small spoon or your fingers, take a heaping tablespoon of the spinach filling and gently stuff each pasta shell, ensuring they are filled generously without overstuffing.

                  Assemble the Dish:

                    Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Carefully arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in a single layer. Drizzle the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with extra shredded mozzarella cheese for a beautiful, cheesy topping.

                      Bake:

                        Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.

                          Serve:

                            Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your delightful creamy spinach stuffed shells!

                              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

                                - Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed shells in a shallow bowl, and drizzle with a little extra marinara sauce. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and additional basil can elevate the presentation!