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Stuffed pasta dishes have a long-standing place in culinary traditions around the world, adored for their comforting flavors and the ability to be customized to suit various tastes and dietary requirements. Among these delightful offerings, Spinach & Feta Stuffed Shells stand out as a vibrant and health-conscious option that delivers both satisfaction and nutrition. This dish not only satisfies the cravings for a hearty meal but also incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients, making it a favorite for families and food enthusiasts alike.

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Shells

Discover the delicious world of Spinach & Feta Stuffed Shells, a nutritious and comforting pasta dish perfect for any occasion. This engaging recipe combines jumbo pasta shells with a savory filling of fresh spinach, ricotta, and tangy feta, creating a delightful meal that pleases both the palate and the body. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish showcases vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Enjoy the satisfaction of cooking and sharing this heartwarming dish with loved ones.
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, lightly beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

1 teaspoon olive oil

Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot enough once you're ready to bake.

    Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they reach an al dente texture. This typically takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shells and set aside to cool.

      Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant and tender. Next, stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and vibrant. Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly.

        Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the lightly beaten egg. Add the wilted spinach mixture, ground nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

          Stuff the Shells: Carefully take each cooked shell and fill it generously with the spinach and cheese mixture. You can use a spoon for this, or for added precision, a piping bag can be helpful.

            Assemble the Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the tops of the shells, covering them well.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Once that time is up, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is lightly golden.

                Garnish and Serve: After baking, remove the dish from the oven and allow the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, garnish with fresh torn basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 50 mins | Servings: 4