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Tuscan cuisine is renowned for its rich, hearty flavors and a deep-seated respect for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Nestled in the heart of Italy, Tuscany offers a culinary experience that celebrates robust flavors and rustic simplicity. Among the many delightful dishes that stem from this region, Tuscan stuffed shells stand out as a comforting and versatile creation that embodies the essence of Italian cooking.
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Tuscan Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Tuscany with this delicious Tuscan Stuffed Shells recipe! Filled with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, vibrant spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, these tasty pasta shells are baked to perfection and smothered in marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish brings the spirit of Italian cuisine to your table. Try it out and elevate your mealtime. #TuscanStuffedShells #ItalianCuisine #ComfortFood #PastaRecipes #HomeCooking #Foodie

Ingredients

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups spinach, wilted and roughly chopped

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

    Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add the chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

      Stuff the Shells: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon a layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Take each shell and fill it with a generous amount of the cheese and spinach mixture. Place the stuffed shells seam side up in the baking dish.

        Add Sauce and Cheese: Once all shells are stuffed, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

          Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil (to avoid sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

            Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread.

              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6