If you’re looking to add a touch of Italian flair to your dinner table, then this recipe for Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Pasta Shells is sure to impress. Filled with a delicious mixture of savory mushrooms, spinach, and creamy cheese, these stuffed pasta shells are a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for a cozy night in. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a homemade meal, this recipe is a great way to elevate your pasta game.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 box jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups chopped mushrooms
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in some olive oil over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the chopped mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the mushroom and spinach mixture to the bowl and mix everything together until well combined.
7. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
8. Take each cooked pasta shell and stuff it with a generous amount of the cheese and vegetable mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish in a single layer.
9. Once all the shells are filled and placed in the dish, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells.
10. 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.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
12. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
These Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Pasta Shells are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will surely become a favorite in your home. The creamy cheese filling paired with the earthy mushrooms and tender spinach creates a harmonious blend that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a meal to impress guests or simply something cozy for a quiet evening, this recipe is a must-try for any lover of Italian-inspired cuisine. Enjoy the warmth and richness of this dish with your loved ones!
