Delicious Pasta Filling Recipe: Perfect for Stuffed Pasta and Lasagna
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Description: This versatile pasta filling is perfect for stuffing a variety of cooked pasta shells and makes a fantastic lasagna filling. With a blend of spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses, this filling is rich and flavorful. Easy to make and even better to eat, it’s a great addition to your meal prep or special dinners. Whether you’re making baked pasta or preparing a hearty lasagna, this filling will elevate your dish with a burst of deliciousness!
Category: Under 60 Minutes
Keywords: Easy, Pasta Filling, Lasagna Filling
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1/2 to 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 to 3 tablespoons onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 large eggs
- 1 to 2 teaspoons sugar (optional, based on your preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Spinach Mixture:
- In a large frypan, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the lemon juice to the pan, followed by the frozen and fresh spinach. Stir to combine the spinach with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook until the fresh spinach is wilted and the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
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Combine the Ingredients:
- Once the spinach mixture has cooled, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and eggs. If you’re using sugar, add it at this stage. Mix everything together until well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Stuff the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook your pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Spoon the prepared filling into each pasta shell, ensuring they are generously filled. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
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Bake the Pasta:
- Top the filled pasta shells with 1 to 1-1/2 cups of your favorite tomato or pasta sauce. Sprinkle with additional grated mozzarella cheese, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the filling is heated through.
Yield: Approximately 3 cups of pasta filling, enough to stuff about 12 large pasta shells.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 394.7
- Fat: 26.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 15.5 g
- Cholesterol: 227.6 mg
- Sodium: 310.6 mg
- Carbohydrates: 13.3 g
- Fiber: 3.6 g
- Sugar: 2.8 g
- Protein: 28.3 g
This pasta filling not only enhances the flavor of your dishes but also adds a nutritious boost with spinach and cheese. Enjoy the delightful taste and creamy texture it brings to your pasta creations! 🍽️💫
