Italian Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the comforting flavors of classic Italian cuisine with these irresistible Italian Stuffed Shells. Jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and nutrient-packed spinach, all seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs for a perfect burst of flavor. Nestled in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, these shells bake to golden perfection in just 35 minutes. This family-friendly, vegetarian dish is easy to prepare and makes an elegant yet hearty dinner option for cozy weeknights or special occasions. Garnish with fresh basil for a vibrant finishing touch and serve with a crisp salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 pieces Jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups Ricotta cheese
• 1.5 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cups Grated Parmesan cheese
• 10 oz Frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
• 1 piece Large egg
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian seasoning
• 2 cups Marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 5 pieces Fresh basil leaves (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, thawed and drained spinach, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.

Step 4

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly onto the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 5

Using a spoon, gently fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture until full but not overflowing.

Step 6

Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up, nestled in the marinara sauce.

Step 7

Drizzle the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring that they are mostly covered.

Step 8

Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of shredded mozzarella over the top of the shells.

Step 9

Drizzle olive oil lightly over the cheese for added richness.

Step 10

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Step 11

Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.

Step 12

Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1548.9 grams (1548.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1868

Total Fat 123.10g	158%
Saturated Fat 65.70g	329%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 462mg	154%
Sodium 4307mg	187%
Total Carbohydrate 83.10g	30%
Dietary Fiber 12.40g	44%
Total Sugars 12.80g
Protein 129.80g	260%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 4116mg	317%
Iron 8mg	44%
Potassium 1889mg	40%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 56.5%

Protein: 26.5%

Carbs: 17.0%