MUSHROOM-SPINACH STUFFED SHELLS RECIPE
These mushroom-spinach stuffed shells combine wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients into a dish that’s as nourishing as it is comforting. Fresh basil and a hint of garlic infuse the filling with vibrant flavor, while a homemade tomato sauce adds a bright, tangy touch. Whether you’re serving a cozy family dinner or treating yourself to a satisfying meal, these stuffed shells are sure to deliver comfort, nourishment, and deliciousness in every bite!
Mushroom-Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep: 50 minutes
Cook: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total: 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
This hearty and wholesome recipe features jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a creamy blend of mushrooms, spinach, and cheeses, all baked in a rich, homemade tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting, nutritious meal that's full of flavor and easy to love!
Kitchen Tools Needed
Measuring Spoons
Measuring Cups
9 x 12 inch baking dish
Aluminum Foil
Large Skillet
Mixing Bowl
Large Pot
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (20 to 24) jumbo pasta shells
- Salt
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling and brushing
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 ounces white mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1 10-ounce package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 1/2 cups low-fat small-curd cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- Large pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1 28-ounce can whole plum tomatoes, crushed by hand
- Kosher salt
- 1/4 cup low-fat small-curd cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until slightly softened but still firm, about 7 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water, and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Prepare the Filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for about 4 minutes until soft, then stir in the garlic for 30 seconds. Add the mushrooms and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until golden. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 more minutes until softened. Add spinach and cook for 2 minutes until heated through. Let the mixture cool, then finely chop it.
Stuff the Shells: Combine the spinach-mushroom mixture with cottage cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, basil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Stuff each pasta shell with approximately 2 tablespoons of the filling and set aside.
Make the Tomato Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes, cooking until lightly golden, about 30 seconds. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, rinse the can with 1 cup water, and add to the skillet. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Blend until smooth and return to the skillet.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Blend cottage cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, and egg in a blender until smooth.
Assemble and Bake: Brush a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Pour half the tomato sauce into the dish, arrange the stuffed shells on top, and cover them with the remaining tomato sauce. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly.
Broil with Cheese Sauce: Drizzle the cheese sauce over the shells and broil for about 2 minutes until lightly golden. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Serving: 1 serving, Calories: 368 kcal, Carbohydrates: 35g, Protein: 20g, Fat: 17g, Saturated fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 80mg, Sodium: 884mg, Fiber: 3g.
Benefits of Mushroom-Spinach Stuffed Shells
Nutrient-Dense Ingredients:
- This recipe combines nutrient-packed ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, and basil, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for a balanced meal.
High in Protein:
- With low-fat cottage cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan, the dish is a great source of protein, making it satisfying and nourishing.
Rich in Fiber:
- Spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes contribute dietary fiber, supporting digestion and promoting a healthy gut.
Heart-Healthy Fats:
- The use of olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health.
This recipe is a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal that's sure to impress. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed shells bring together creamy, hearty, and flavorful elements that everyone will love. Enjoy the balance of health and indulgence in every bite!
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