Delicious and Creamy Cheese Stuffed Shells

Cheese Stuffed Shells, a classic Italian-American dish, is a comforting and delightful treat packed with a rich and creamy ricotta filling, smothered in a savory marinara sauce, and topped with a generous blanket of melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:
– 18-20 jumbo pasta shells
– 15 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
– 24 oz marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta shells:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions, until just al dente. Do not overcook, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
3. Drain the shells and lay them out on a large baking sheet to cool slightly, making sure they do not stick together.

2. Prepare the cheese filling:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, the grated Parmesan cheese, and the minced garlic.
2. If using, add the freshly chopped spinach.
3. Add the large egg, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the dish:
1. Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Stuff each pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture, and arrange them in the baking dish, open side up.
3. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the stuffed shells.
4. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the sauce.

4. Bake:
1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the top is slightly golden and crispy.

5. Serve:
1. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
3. Serve the Cheese Stuffed Shells with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy your Delicious and Creamy Cheese Stuffed Shells with family and friends!