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Creepy Stuffed Shells

Creepy stuffed shells are a hearty, cheesy pasta dish featuring large al dente shells filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, topped with melted mozzarella and baked until bubbly and golden. The filling is flavored with garlic, onions, and a hint of nutmeg, creating a comforting yet slightly wild flavor profile. The final dish has a gooey, crispy exterior with tender shells and a rich, cheesy interior that invites you back for seconds.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 12 pieces large pasta shells must be al dente
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese full-fat recommended
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 cup fresh spinach chopped, or frozen and drained
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg fresh grated if possible
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup tomato sauce optional for baking

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Spoon or piping bag

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta shells and cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped garlic and finely chopped onion until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped spinach, and a pinch of nutmeg. Season generously with salt and pepper, then fold everything together until well mixed and creamy.
  4. Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each cooked shell generously with the cheese mixture. Place the filled shells upright in a baking dish, arranging them snugly but without overcrowding.
  5. If desired, spoon tomato sauce over the assembled shells for added flavor and moisture. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling, slightly browned, and the edges are crispy and golden. The kitchen will be filled with the irresistible scent of melted cheese and garlic.
  7. Once baked, let the shells rest for 5 minutes to settle and avoid cheese sliding off. Serve hot, garnished with extra spinach or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the gooey, chaotic comfort of these creepy stuffed shells!