Introduction
Looking for a comforting and satisfying Italian-inspired meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients? Look no further than these delightful spinach mushroom stuffed shells with marinara sauce! This dish is a perfect blend of creamy ricotta cheese, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach, all nestled inside jumbo pasta shells and smothered in a rich, homemade (or store-bought – we won’t judge!) marinara sauce. It’s easier to make than you might think and is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive in!
Main Sections
Preparing the Filling
The heart of this dish is the delicious and flavorful filling. Here’s how to make it:
- Sauté the Mushrooms: Start by sautéing your favorite mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix!) in a little olive oil with garlic until they are softened and browned. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the pan with the mushrooms and cook until wilted. Be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the spinach after it’s cooked to prevent a watery filling.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked mushrooms and spinach with ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, an egg (to bind everything together), and seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. A touch of nutmeg adds a surprising and delightful flavor.
Cooking the Pasta Shells
Properly cooked pasta shells are crucial for this dish. Follow these tips:
- Cook Al Dente: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions, but be sure to cook them *al dente*. They should be slightly firm to the bite, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Drain and Rinse: Drain the cooked pasta shells and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.
- Gentle Handling: Be gentle when handling the cooked shells, as they can be delicate and easily tear.
Assembling and Baking the Stuffed Shells
This is where the magic happens! Let’s put it all together:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauce the Bottom: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. This will prevent the shells from sticking and add extra flavor.
- Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach mushroom ricotta filling.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, seam-side up, in a single layer.
- Top with Sauce: Generously pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
- Cheese it Up (Optional): Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese or mozzarella cheese for a cheesy, bubbly topping.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese (if using) is melted and golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Sides: Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Wine Pairing: A light-bodied Italian red wine like Chianti or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio pairs well with this dish.
Making it Vegetarian/Vegan
- Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly!
- Vegan: To make it vegan, substitute the ricotta cheese with a plant-based ricotta alternative (made from tofu, cashews, or almonds), use a flax egg or commercial egg replacer, and ensure your Parmesan cheese is also vegan.
Conclusion
Spinach mushroom stuffed shells with marinara sauce are a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful filling, perfectly cooked pasta shells, and rich marinara sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy this classic Italian-inspired meal! Buon appetito!
