If you’re looking for a nourishing and comforting meal that can feed the whole family, look no further than spinach and ricotta-stuffed shells.

This Italian-inspired dish combines tender pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta cheese and spinach mixture, topped with a hearty tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. Not only is this dish delectable, but it’s also a smart choice for a healthy diet, as it’s packed with protein and vegetables. Here’s how to make it:.

: Ingredients

1 package of jumbo pasta shells
1 container of ricotta cheese
1 cup of grated parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 package of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1/4 teaspoon of sea salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1 jar of tomato sauce
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

: Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375F and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, thawed spinach, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Take a large baking dish and cover the bottom with a layer of tomato sauce. Take each pasta shell and fill it generously with the ricotta mixture, using a spoon or piping bag.
Place each stuffed shell on top of the tomato sauce in the baking dish. Repeat until you have used up all the pasta shells and the ricotta mixture.
Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover them completely. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Remove the aluminum foil and bake for 5 more minutes to get a crunchy top.
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil, if desired, and serve hot.

: Tips

Here are some tips to make your spinach and ricotta-stuffed shells even more delicious:.

You can use fresh spinach instead of frozen if you prefer. Just make sure to wash it thoroughly and chop it finely.
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought tomato sauce, but making your own is always better.
Add some chopped garlic, onion, or bell pepper to the ricotta mixture for an extra flavor kick.
Use a mix of different cheeses for the filling, such as feta, goat, or gorgonzola, for a more complex flavor profile.
If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, basil, thyme, or paprika, to jazz up the tomato sauce and stuffing.

: Conclusion

Spinach and ricotta-stuffed shells are a classic Italian dish that never fails to please. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck party, or a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to become a crowd-pleaser.

With its tender pasta shells, creamy ricotta stuffing, and rich tomato sauce, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!.