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White Cheddar & Spinach Stuffed Shells

White Cheddar & Spinach Stuffed Shells

  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

White Cheddar & Spinach Stuffed Shells are a comforting and creamy baked pasta dish combining tender pasta shells stuffed with a rich blend of sharp white cheddar, ricotta cheese, and fresh sautéed spinach. This recipe is simple, family-friendly, and can be made ahead, perfect for casual dinners or gatherings. Each bite offers a delightful balance of cheesy richness and vibrant greens, finished with a golden baked cheese crust and marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta Shells

  • 12 oz large pasta shells

Cheese Filling

  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce & Seasoning

  • 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (basil or parsley), optional for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and carefully add the pasta shells. Cook until just al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly before filling.
  2. Prepare the Spinach and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer spinach and garlic to a strainer or clean towel to remove excess moisture.
  3. Mix the Cheesy Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spinach and garlic, ricotta cheese, shredded white cheddar, salt, pepper, and a handful of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
  4. Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or fingers, fill each cooked pasta shell generously with the cheesy spinach mixture without overfilling to prevent breaking.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Spoon more marinara sauce on top, then sprinkle additional shredded white cheddar and Parmesan over everything.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden browned. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta shells; they should be slightly undercooked as they finish cooking in the oven.
  • Drain spinach thoroughly to avoid a watery filling.
  • Use sharp white cheddar for the best flavor and melting quality.
  • This dish can be made ahead by preparing the filling and stuffing the shells a day before baking.
  • Allow the baked shells to rest after cooking for flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: stuffed shells, white cheddar, spinach, baked pasta, cheesy pasta, vegetarian, comfort food

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Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/white-cheddar-spinach-stuffed-shells/