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Creamy Dreamy Spinach Cheese Shells is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table, combining rich, creamy flavors with nutritious spinach for a delightful culinary experience. With its luscious texture and satisfying taste, this dish has become increasingly popular among families and individuals alike, providing a hearty meal option that doesn't compromise on health. As more people seek to incorporate vegetables into their diets, pasta dishes like Creamy Dreamy Spinach Cheese Shells offer a delicious way to blend indulgence with nutrition.

Creamy Spinach Cheese Shells

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Dreamy Spinach Cheese Shells, a delightful dish that effortlessly combines nutrition with rich, creamy goodness. This recipe features jumbo pasta shells filled with a luscious mixture of spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, all enveloped in savory marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, it's not just a meal but a comforting culinary experience that everyone will love. Enjoy adding healthier veggies to your pasta routine without skimping on taste!
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Ingredients
  

12 large pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1 garlic clove, minced

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9x13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil.

    Cook Pasta Shells: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

      Sauté Spinach: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, around 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.

        Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese, sautéed spinach, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined and creamy.

          Stuff the Shells: Carefully fill each cooked shell with a generous scoop of the creamy spinach cheese mixture and place them filled side up in the greased baking dish.

            Add Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

                Serve: Once out of the oven, let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | 4 servings