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Holiday Stuffed Pasta Recipe


  • Author: I
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

For the Stuffed Pasta

  • 1216 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed, and drained)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Topping

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
  • Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

 


Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  • In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, spinach, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Pasta

  • Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and spinach mixture.
  • Use a spoon or piping bag for easier filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

  • In a saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat.
  • Stir in dried basil and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

  • In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
  • Arrange the stuffed pasta shells on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

Step 6: Bake

  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Serve

  • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

 

  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 30