Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells
These Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells take a beloved appetizer flavor and transform it into a satisfying vegetarian main course. Each jumbo pasta shell is packed with a rich, cheesy filling featuring fresh spinach, tangy artichoke hearts, and a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Baked in a vibrant marinara sauce, this dish is hearty, comforting, and perfect for a family dinner or a meatless Monday meal.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, and set aside.
- 2In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, thoroughly squeezed dry spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- 3Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with approximately 1-2 tablespoons of the spinach and artichoke filling. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- 4Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are mostly covered. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells.
- 5Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is hot. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can. You'll need about 10-12 ounces of fresh spinach. Sauté it until wilted, then squeeze out as much liquid as possible before chopping and adding to the filling.
How do I prevent the pasta shells from breaking when stuffing?
Cook the shells only until al dente, not mushy. Rinse them with cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process and make them easier to handle. Be gentle when stuffing.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish (without baking), cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, potentially adding extra baking time.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.
