Kid-Approved Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Indulging in comfort food doesn't have to mean sacrificing nutrition. Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells are the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and wholesome spinach, making for a delightful meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create an impressive dish, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Rich in flavors and textures, these stuffed shells offer a satisfying experience that is both filling and nutritious.

Treat yourself to a delicious and nutritious meal with these Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells! This recipe combines creamy cheeses and vibrant spinach for a comforting dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Easy to prepare, the stuffed shells are filled with a delightful mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, then topped with marinara sauce and baked until bubbly. They’re not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a hit for both kids and adults. Enjoy a satisfying meal that's sure to please everyone at the table!

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Ingredients

20 large pasta shells

2 cups spinach, fresh or frozen (if frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 large egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

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

Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Stuff the Shells: Carefully spoon a generous amount of the spinach mixture into each pasta shell, making sure to fill them well.

Layer the Sauce: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce.

Add More Sauce: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for that extra cheesiness.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Garnish and Serve: Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm, making sure to scoop a bit of the sauce from the bottom with each serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 55 minutes | 4 servings