Stuffed Cheese Shells for Dinner

Ingredients

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, chopped and sautéed)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Pasta Shells:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells until al dente (about 9–10 minutes). Drain and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare Cheese Filling:
   In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sautéed spinach (if using). Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff the Shells:
   Spoon the cheese mixture into each cooled pasta shell.
5. Assemble in Baking Dish:
   Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, open side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella on top.
6. Bake:
   Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
7. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Let me know if you’d like a meat version or gluten-free option!