A delightful twist on stuffed pasta shells, this recipe combines savory sausage, creamy cheeses, and vibrant spinach for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and the right texture for the pasta.
Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Rinsing with cold water prevents the shells from sticking together.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until well blended.
Ensure the filling is evenly mixed for consistent flavor in every bite.
Fill each pasta shell with the prepared filling using a spoon.
Use a small spoon or piping bag for easier filling.
Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top and cover with the remaining sauce.
Ensure the shells are evenly spaced for even cooking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted.
Cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes to prevent excessive browning.
Serve the pasta bake hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.