Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Shells

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, creamy satisfaction of pasta. Amongst the myriad of pasta recipes, Creamy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Shells stands out as a delightful option that marries cheesy goodness with the vibrant freshness of spinach. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a celebration of textures, with the soft pasta shells cradling a luscious filling that promises to please the whole family.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with creamy spinach ricotta pasta shells. This delightful dish features large pasta shells stuffed with a rich, cheesy filling of ricotta and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a velvety marinara cream sauce. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe balances flavors and textures beautifully. With its vibrant appearance and enticing aroma, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Experience a culinary adventure that warms hearts and brings everyone together!

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Ingredients

12 large pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 cup marinara sauce

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool.

Mix Filling Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a spoon, carefully fill each pasta shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture, placing them seam side up in a greased baking dish.

Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the marinara sauce with the heavy cream. Pour the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated.

Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the shells.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4