Cheesy Spinach-Stuffed Shells with Herb Tomato Sauce

Stuffed Shells Recipe from LoveWithRecipes.com

Description:

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Stuffed Shells, a delightful combination of creamy cheeses, aromatic herbs, and hearty vegetables, all nestled in tender pasta shells and baked to perfection. Perfect for a cozy lunch, a delightful snack, or a potluck dish that is sure to impress. This dish combines the simplicity of easy-to-find ingredients with the richness of Italian cuisine, making it a favorite for spring and winter gatherings alike.

Ingredients:

• Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup
• Mozzarella Cheese: 3 cups, divided
• Dried Basil: 1 1/2 teaspoons
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic: 1 teaspoon
• Frozen Chopped Spinach: 1 package, squeezed dry
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (about 14 ounces)
• Tomato Sauce: 1 can (about 15 ounces)
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/3 cup, grated
• Jumbo Pasta Shells: 1 box (approximately 12 ounces)
• Parsley: Fresh, chopped for garnish

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 598.4
• Fat Content: 25.9 g
• Saturated Fat Content: 15.2 g
• Cholesterol Content: 89.3 mg
• Sodium Content: 1058.2 mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 58.6 g
• Fiber Content: 5.6 g
• Sugar Content: 7.8 g
• Protein Content: 34.3 g

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

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   • Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven reaches the ideal temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the stuffed shells.

2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until well combined. This mixture will serve as the rich, creamy filling for your pasta shells.

3. Add the Spinach:

   • Thaw and squeeze dry one package of frozen chopped spinach. It’s important to remove as much moisture as possible to prevent the filling from becoming watery. Once dry, add the spinach to the cheese mixture, stirring until evenly distributed. Set this mixture aside.

4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

   • In another bowl, combine one can of diced tomatoes (undrained), one can of tomato sauce, 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and any remaining basil and oregano. Stir well to blend the flavors. This will serve as the savory sauce to coat the stuffed shells.

5. Cook the Pasta Shells:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be careful not to overcook the shells, as they will continue to cook during baking. Drain and rinse the shells under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.

6. Stuff the Shells:

   • Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the spinach and cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling, ensuring each shell is well-stuffed. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in a large baking dish. You might have some extra shells left over, which can be saved for another use.

7. Assemble the Dish:

   • Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is well-covered with sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. For an added touch of freshness and color, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley.

8. Bake:

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.

9. Serve:

   • Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The stuffed shells can be served hot, making them perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.

Serving Suggestions:

Stuffed shells are a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some suggestions to complete your meal:

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a classic choice that complements the rich, cheesy filling of the stuffed shells.
• Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stuffed shells. Consider a simple green salad or a Caesar salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers add a healthy and colorful touch to your meal.
• Wine Pairing: For an adult meal, consider pairing the stuffed shells with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a white wine like Pinot Grigio.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Asiago, fontina, or even a bit of gorgonzola can add a unique flavor twist.
• Meat Lovers: For a heartier version, add some cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or turkey to the cheese mixture.
• Vegetarian: Keep it vegetarian by sticking to the original recipe, or add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
• Sauce Options: While the classic tomato sauce is a favorite, you can try using Alfredo sauce or a creamy pesto sauce for a different taste experience.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the stuffed shells and cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover with aluminum foil, and bake as directed.
• Freezing: Stuffed shells freeze well. Assemble the shells in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Culinary Insights:

Stuffed shells, or Conchiglioni Ripieni, are a beloved dish in Italian cuisine, celebrated for their versatility and the way they bring together simple, wholesome ingredients into a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. The dish is a great example of how traditional Italian cooking emphasizes the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients prepared with care.

In this recipe, the combination of creamy ricotta and stretchy mozzarella creates a rich filling that’s beautifully complemented by the earthiness of spinach and the aromatic hints of basil and oregano. The use of both diced tomatoes and tomato sauce ensures that each bite is juicy and flavorful, while the Parmesan adds a savory depth that’s hard to resist.

Cooking the shells to al dente is crucial as it ensures they hold their shape during baking, providing a perfect vessel for the filling. Baking at a moderate temperature allows the flavors to meld together and the cheeses to melt into a gooey, golden topping that’s sure to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Ease of Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are readily available.
• Flavorful and Filling: The combination of cheeses, spinach, and herbs makes for a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor.
• Versatility: Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, stuffed shells can be adapted to suit any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights or for entertaining guests.

In conclusion, these stuffed shells are more than just a meal; they are a celebration of comforting flavors and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Enjoy this dish as part of your culinary repertoire and savor the delightful harmony of tastes that only a well-prepared Italian meal can offer. Bon appétit!