Ingredients
Scale
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 12–15 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and any liquid has evaporated.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted (if using frozen spinach, ensure it is well-drained). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the sautéed mushroom and spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the marinara sauce with heavy cream (if using) to create a creamy sauce.
- Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the mushroom and spinach filling and place them in the baking dish, open side up.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Serve
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish!
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 35