Baked Stuffed Shells

Baked Stuffed Shells is a hearty and comforting dish filled with a high-protein blend of ricotta, spinach, and chicken, all enveloped in tender pasta shells and topped with marinara sauce and cheese. This delicious American classic is perfect for a cozy dinner for two, offering a satisfying balance of flavors and nutrients.

Ingredients

• Jumbo pasta shells - 8 pieces
• Ricotta cheese - 150 grams
• Cooked chicken breast, shredded - 100 grams
• Fresh spinach, chopped - 50 grams
• Parmesan cheese, grated - 30 grams
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded - 50 grams
• Marinara sauce - 200 grams
• Garlic, minced - 1 clove
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Dried Italian herbs - 1 teaspoon

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded chicken, cooked spinach, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs. Mix well.
6. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta and chicken mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
7. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are evenly coated.
8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
11. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.
• Contains spinach, which is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron.

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