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Creating this delightful dish requires a selection of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Here's what you’ll need to craft these creamy Alfredo spinach pasta shells:

Creamy Alfredo Spinach Pasta Shells

Transform your next dinner into a cozy experience with creamy Alfredo spinach pasta shells. This delightful dish brings together large pasta shells filled with a rich, cheesy spinach mixture, all enveloped in a velvety Alfredo sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a relaxing meal at home, this recipe combines simple ingredients for a satisfying, hearty feast. Indulge in the comforting flavors of garlic, spinach, and creamy cheese that will warm your heart and fill your home with irresistible aromas.
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Ingredients
  

12 large pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil. Carefully add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, typically about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.

    Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, freshly grated nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

      Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped spinach. Stir until the mixture is uniform and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste.

        Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each cooked pasta shell and generously fill it with the spinach and cheese mixture using a spoon. Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, placing them side by side with the open side facing up.

          Combine Sauce and Shells: Carefully pour the creamy Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring that each shell is well-covered. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan on top.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, preventing the tops from browning too quickly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are bubbling and golden brown.

              Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes to set. Garnish generously with freshly chopped basil before serving. Enjoy your delightful creamy Alfredo spinach pasta shells warm!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4