classic stuffed shells recipe

Certainly! Stuffed shells are a classic and comforting Italian dish. Here’s a recipe for classic stuffed shells with ricotta and spinach, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese:

Ingredients:

For the Shells:

• 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Shells:

1. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped spinach, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Stuff the Shells:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spoon the ricotta and spinach mixture into each cooked pasta shell, filling them generously.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a separate bowl, mix the marinara sauce with dried Italian seasoning if desired.

5. Assemble and Bake:

1. Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
3. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the stuffed shells.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the shells are heated through.

6. Garnish and Serve:

1. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
3. Allow the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your classic stuffed shells with ricotta and spinach! This dish is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.