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Christmas Stuffed Shells

Christmas Stuffed Shells: Cheesy Joy for Your Festive Table

Delightful Christmas Stuffed Shells filled with cheese and spinach, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 shells
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 2 cups Spinach Can substitute with kale or chard if desired.
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Can substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Pecorino Cheese Can be replaced with Parmesan for a milder taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is recommended, but garlic powder can also work.
  • 1 tsp Oregano Swap with Italian seasoning for varied flavor.
  • 1 tsp Lemon Zest Can omit for a more straightforward taste.
  • 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust quantity or remove based on preference.
  • Salt Adjust to taste.
  • Pepper Adjust to taste.
For the Pasta & Sauce
  • 12 oz Pasta Shells Use large shells for best results.
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Use homemade or jarred according to preference.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Can use any mild vegetable oil as a substitute.

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Steamer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a small pot or steamer, add water and bring to a boil. Add spinach for about 1 minute until wilted, chop finely, and set aside.
  3. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, add large pasta shells, and cook for approximately 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, grated pecorino, minced garlic, oregano, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13 baking dish. Stuff each pasta shell with the filling and arrange them in the dish, open side up.
  6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and edges are golden.
  7. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving warm, drizzled with extra marinara sauce if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1shellCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 11gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Consider preparing a double batch for quick meals during busy holiday evenings.

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