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Barefoot Contessa Stuffed Shells Recipe

Barefoot Contessa Stuffed Shells Recipe

If you love cozy pasta dinners, this Barefoot Contessa Stuffed Shells Recipe is for you. It is rich, creamy and full of flavor.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 20 –22 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
  

Cook the Pasta Shells

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells. Cook until just al dente. Do not overcook them. They will cook more in the oven. Drain the shells and rinse gently with cool water. Set them aside carefully.

Prepare the Spinach Mixture

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic. Cook for one minute. Add chopped spinach. Cook until soft. This takes about two minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before mixing.

Make the Cheese Filling

  • In a large bowl, add ricotta, mozzarella and Parmesan. Crack in the egg. Add oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until smooth. Add the cooked spinach mixture. Mix gently until everything is well combined and creamy.

Prepare the Baking Dish

  • Spread one cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. This keeps the shells moist. It also adds flavor to every bite. Preheat your oven to 375°F while you fill the shells.

Stuff the Shells

  • Take one shell at a time. Use a spoon to fill it with the cheese mixture. Do not overfill. Place each stuffed shell in the baking dish. Arrange them in a single layer over the sauce.

Add Sauce and Cheese

  • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Make sure they are covered lightly. Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top. This will melt and turn golden in the oven.

Bake the Dish

  • Cover the dish with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10 minutes. The cheese should bubble and turn slightly golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use whole milk ricotta for the best creamy texture.
  • Add cooked ground beef for a meat version.
  • Try cottage cheese for a lighter option.
  • Add red pepper flakes for spice.
  • Use fresh basil for brighter flavor.
  • Do not overcook pasta shells.
  • Let the dish rest before serving.
Keyword Barefoot Contessa Stuffed Shells Recipe