Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells with Garlic Bread
ingredients:
Pantry Items
12 ounces ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
12 jumbos pasta shell
24 ounces marinara sauce
Fresh Produce & Herbs
10 ounces fresh spinach
14 ounces marinated artichoke hearts
Seasonings & Spices
3 cloves garlic
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
instructions :
Step 1: Prepare the pasta shells
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
12 jumbo pasta shells
Step 2: Make the spinach and artichoke filling
In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of the parmesan cheese, spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and black pepper until well combined.
12 ounces ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
10 ounces fresh spinach
14 ounces marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Step 3: Stuff the pasta shells
Stuff the cooked pasta shells with the spinach and artichoke filling.
Step 4: Assemble and bake
Spread 1 cup of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until heated through and the cheese is melted.
1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Step 5: Serve with garlic bread
Prepare your favorite garlic bread recipe or purchase pre-made garlic bread to serve alongside the stuffed shells.
Here are some popular questions and their answers related to Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells with Garlic Bread:
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh spinach in this recipe. Thaw and drain the frozen spinach well before mixing it with the other filling ingredients.
- What type of marinara sauce should I use? You can use your favorite store-bought marinara sauce or homemade marinara sauce for this recipe. Choose one with flavors that you enjoy, whether it’s traditional, roasted garlic, or spicy marinara.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake them according to the recipe instructions. This is convenient for meal prep or entertaining.
- How do I prevent the stuffed shells from drying out? Make sure to cover the baking dish with aluminum foil while baking to prevent the stuffed shells from drying out. Remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and lightly brown.
- Can I add meat to the filling? Yes, you can add cooked ground meat such as Italian sausage or ground turkey to the filling if desired. Brown the meat before mixing it with the other filling ingredients.
- What type of cheese can I use for the filling? Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese are classic choices for the filling in stuffed shells. You can also add other cheeses like fontina or provolone for additional flavor.
- How do I know when the stuffed shells are done baking? The stuffed shells are done baking when the sauce is bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned. You can also insert a fork into one of the shells to ensure it’s heated through.
- Can I freeze stuffed shells for later? Yes, you can freeze stuffed shells before or after baking. Wrap the unbaked stuffed shells tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. For baked shells, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe dish.
- What can I serve alongside the stuffed shells besides garlic bread? You can serve a variety of sides with stuffed shells, such as a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. Garlic bread complements the dish well, but you can also serve crusty Italian bread or dinner rolls.
- How can I make the garlic bread extra flavorful? For extra flavor, spread the garlic bread with a mixture of softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese before baking. You can also add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
These questions and answers should help you navigate making Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells with Garlic Bread successfully!
Here are some secrets to achieving the perfect Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells with Garlic Bread:
- Selecting Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach and artichoke hearts for the best flavor and texture in the filling. Fresh ingredients will elevate the taste of the dish.
- Properly Drain Ingredients: Ensure that the spinach and artichoke hearts are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the filling, which can make the stuffed shells soggy.
- Seasoning Balance: Taste the filling mixture before stuffing the shells to ensure it’s well-seasoned. Adjust the amount of herbs, spices, and salt to your preference for a perfectly seasoned filling.
- Quality Marinara Sauce: Use a high-quality marinara sauce with robust flavors to complement the creamy spinach and artichoke filling. Choose a sauce that you enjoy eating on its own for the best results.
- Even Cheese Distribution: When assembling the stuffed shells, distribute the cheese evenly throughout the filling to ensure every bite is flavorful and creamy.
- Preheating the Oven: Make sure to preheat your oven before baking the stuffed shells to ensure even cooking and proper melting of the cheese.
- Covering the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil while baking to trap steam and prevent the stuffed shells from drying out. This will help retain moisture and keep the filling creamy.
- Melting Cheese Perfectly: If you prefer a golden brown and bubbly cheese topping, remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and lightly brown.
- Serve with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the stuffed shells with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pairing with Garlic Bread: Choose a high-quality garlic bread or make your own with fresh garlic, butter, and herbs. Toast the garlic bread until golden and crispy for the perfect accompaniment to the creamy stuffed shells.
- Allowing to Rest: Let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to handle when serving.
- Double-Checking Doneness: Ensure that the stuffed shells are heated through by inserting a fork into one of the shells. If it comes out hot, the dish is ready to serve.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding cooked protein like shredded chicken or sausage to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This is convenient for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
- Enjoy Fresh: Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is gooey and the flavors are at their peak. Serve hot and savor every bite!
By following these secrets, you’ll be able to create the perfect Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells with Garlic Bread that are flavorful, creamy, and utterly delicious!