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Christmas Stuffed Shells

Cheesy Christmas Stuffed Shells for Festive Family Feasts

These Christmas Stuffed Shells are a cheesy delight, perfect for holiday gatherings with family and friends.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 shells
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Shells
  • 12 pieces large pasta shells Essential for creating a sturdy vessel full of cheesy goodness.
For the Filling
  • 2 cups fresh spinach If fresh isn't available, frozen can be used (thaw and drain).
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese The creamy heart of the filling; can swap for cottage cheese.
  • 1 cup pecorino cheese Adds a salty, tangy kick; Parmesan works as well.
  • 2 cloves garlic Fresh cloves are best, but garlic powder can be used.
  • 1 tsp oregano Enhances the herby profile; Italian seasoning can be a twist.
  • 1 tsp lemon zest Optional, but elevates the taste.
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes A hint of heat; optional for milder flavor.
  • 1 tsp salt Adjust to your liking.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Adjust to your liking.
For the Sauce
  • 24 oz marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought; low-sodium recommended.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • large mixing bowl
  • 9×13 baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a medium saucepan, steam the fresh spinach for about 1 minute, or until wilted. Remove from heat, squeeze out water, and chop finely.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add large pasta shells and cook for around 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, grated pecorino, minced garlic, oregano, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  5. Spread marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the prepared filling and place side by side in the dish.
  6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to lightly golden the top.
  7. Let the Christmas Stuffed Shells cool for a minute before serving, optionally drizzling with extra marinara sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 2shellsCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Stuffed shells can be prepared a day in advance. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze unbaked shells for up to 2 months.

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