Description
These Healthy Stuffed Shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, cannellini beans, and spinach, making them a lighter, nutrient-packed version of the classic dish. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, they’re a delicious, wholesome comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 cups Ricotta Cheese (or 15 oz container)
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1 cup Cannellini Beans (or half a can)
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2 cups Spinach
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2 cups Mozzarella, divided
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½ teaspoon italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon garlic
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¼ teaspoon nutmeg
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24 jumbo shells (this includes an extra few for ones that may break in the cooking process)
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3 cups favorite marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
In a food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, cannellini beans, spinach, mozzarella, olive oil, and seasonings. Blend on high for about 1 minute, or until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasonings to taste if needed.
Spread 1 cup of tomato sauce evenly across the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish. Take each pasta shell and gently open it. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the creamy filling into each shell, allowing them to be generously filled (it’s perfectly fine if the filling overflows a little!). Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
Top the shells with the remaining tomato sauce, making sure each shell is well-coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden. For a slightly crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Once the shells are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with a side of crusty bread and a fresh, vibrant salad for the perfect meal!
Notes
See above blog post for tips on make ahead, and storage!
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Oven