SPINACH RICOTTA STUFFED PASTA SHELLS

Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Pasta Shells. Rich, comfort and delicious meal that you can eat for, lunch or dinner. this classic Italian-inspired dish is truly restaurant-worthy!

INGREDIENTS:

  • 16-20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 4 cups packed fresh spinach leaves (roughly chopped)
  • 32 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • Garnish:
  • Fresh basil and parmesan cheese

INSTRUCTIONS:
1 ) Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. and place a large saucepan with water over high heat and cook the pasta al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2 ) In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the oil and when it starts to shimmer, add the garlic and cook until it begins to brown, about a minute.

3 ) Add the chopped spinach, stir and cook until it begins to wilt, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool.

4 ) In a mixing bowl, stir together the cooked spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.

5 ) Pour 1 cup of the marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.