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Cheesy Spinach and Sausage Stuffed Shells
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish

Ingredients
  

  • 16 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage with the diced onion until the sausage is browned and the onion is soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute.
  • Stir the chopped spinach into the skillet and cook until wilted. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the cooled sausage and spinach mixture and stir until evenly mixed.
  • Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Spoon the filling into each cooked shell and arrange them in the dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella.
  • Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the shells rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a spoon to gently press the filling into the shells so they hold together during baking. Leftovers reheat well in a covered dish at 350°F with a splash of extra marinara to keep the shells moist. If you prefer a milder flavor, swap the Italian sausage for mild pork sausage.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Large pot, Large skillet, Mixing bowl, Baking dish