Delicious & Affordable Family Meals: Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Elevate your family dinner with the exquisite flavors of our “Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Shells.” This dish combines tender pasta shells generously filled with a rich blend of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and creamy ricotta. Baked to perfection in a savory marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese, these stuffed shells offer a taste of comfort and sophistication. Join us as we delve into the art of crafting this delectable and family-friendly masterpiece.

Ingredients:

  • 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the Pasta Shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Ensure they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  3. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, sauté finely chopped mushrooms over medium heat until they release their moisture and become golden brown. Add minced garlic and chopped spinach to the skillet. Sauté until the spinach wilts. Season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Allow the mixture to cool.
  4. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the beaten egg. Mix until well combined. Add the cooled mushroom and spinach mixture to the cheese mixture. Stir until evenly incorporated.
  5. Stuff the Shells: Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the mushroom and spinach ricotta mixture. Place the filled shells in a baking dish.
  6. Cover with Marinara Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are generously covered. You can use store-bought sauce or homemade marinara.
  7. Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the shells are heated through and the cheese is melted.
  8. Cheese Topping: Remove the foil and sprinkle additional mozzarella on top of the shells. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, garnish the Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Shells with fresh basil or parsley.
  10. Delight in the Savory Elegance: Gather your family around the dinner table and delight in the savory elegance of Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Shells. The combination of earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and creamy ricotta creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone with a satisfied palate.

With “Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Shells,” you’ve not only crafted a delectable family dinner but also embraced the art of combining elegance with comfort. This dish is a celebration of rich textures and savory goodness, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of family favorites. Enjoy the luxurious flavors and savor the joy of sharing a delightful meal with your loved ones. Here’s to the warmth and satisfaction of a well-prepared family dinner!

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