Festive Christmas Stuffed Shells for a Cozy Holiday Feast

Enjoy these delightful Christmas Stuffed Shells, a vegetarian dish filled with creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach, perfect for holiday gatherings.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 50

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Filling

12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells For the best stuffing capacity.
10 ounces Fresh Spinach Can substitute with kale.
15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese can be used for a lighter filling.
1 cup Pecorino Cheese Parmesan is a good alternative.
2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced, avoid powdered for more depth.
1 teaspoon Oregano Dried oregano works perfectly.
1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Can swap out for lime zest.
½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for a hint of heat.
to taste Salt and Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.

For the Sauce

24 ounces Marinara Sauce Store-bought or homemade.

Equipment

large pot
9×13 baking dish
Mixing bowl

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Christmas Stuffed Shells

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Steam fresh spinach in a pot for about 3-4 minutes until wilted, then chop finely and squeeze out excess water.
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook jumbo pasta shells for about 10 minutes until al dente, then drizzle with olive oil.
Combine chopped spinach, ricotta, pecorino cheese, minced garlic, oregano, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
Spread marinara sauce in a 9×13 baking dish, stuff each shell with filling, and place face-up in dish.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and let cool slightly before serving. Offer extra marinara on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 14gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 320mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Make ahead and store in the fridge for convenient meal prep!

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