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Comfort food comes in many forms, but few dishes capture the essence of warmth and satisfaction quite like Cheesy Bliss: Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Shells. This inviting recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring creamy ricotta cheese and vibrant spinach tucked into tender pasta shells, all baked to golden perfection and topped with gooey mozzarella. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, this dish is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate, transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience.

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Shells

Indulge in the comforting essence of Cheesy Bliss: Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Shells, a delightful dish perfect for any gathering. This recipe combines creamy ricotta and fresh spinach stuffed into tender pasta shells, all baked with a rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella. Discover the nutritional benefits of each ingredient, plus tips for preparation and creative variations that will elevate your culinary experience. Enjoy a meal that's as beautiful as it is delicious!
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Ingredients
  

12 large pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup marinara sauce

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the large pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, typically around 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.

        Stuff the shells: Carefully take each cooked pasta shell and fill it with the creamy spinach ricotta mixture using a spoon or a piping bag for easier filling.

          Assemble the dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish (about 1 cup). Place the stuffed pasta shells on top in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the pasta shells and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake 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 & serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, before serving.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4