Accidental Spicy Spinach Shells

May 10, 2023May 10, 20230 1
Accidental Spicy Spinach Shells, a cheesy, spicy weeknight dinner
in Pasta

Prep

15 min

Cook

35 min

Ready In

50 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 package pasta shells
4 spicy Italian sausages , casings removed
1 package shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 1/2 cups chopped fresh spinach
1/2 large tomato , diced
1/2 onion , diced
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
1 container ricotta cheese
1 jar tomato sauce

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
6-8
Calories
645
Sugar
8g
Fat
39g
Accidental Spicy Spinach Shells are a delicious and easy pasta dish that came together by accident one night in the kitchen. With a little bit of this and a little bit of that, this cheesy, spicy concoction was born and it's been a family favorite ever since. It's a great way to use up leftover spicy Italian sausage and pantry staples like pasta and tomato sauce. Plus, the addition of fresh spinach adds some much-needed greens to this indulgent dish. This is a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, bring salted water to boil. Add pasta shells and let cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2.In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the spicy Italian sausage until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3.Add the diced onion, diced red bell pepper, and diced tomato to the skillet with the sausage and sauté until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are softened.
4.Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5.In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
6.Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
7.In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with a spoonful of the cheese mixture and then place them in the baking dish.
8.Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the shells. Top with the sausage and vegetable mixture.
9.Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10.Serve hot and enjoy!

PROS

Accidental Spicy Spinach Shells are a delicious and filling weeknight dinner option that can be made with pantry staples.

The spicy Italian sausage adds a nice kick of flavor, while the spinach provides a healthy dose of greens.

Plus, it’s a cheesy pasta dish that everyone will love!

CONS

This dish is high in calories and fat, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

It may not be the best option for those with dietary restrictions or those looking to watch their calorie intake.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While this dish may not be the healthiest option, it does include some nutritious ingredients.
Spinach is a great source of vitamins and minerals, while the tomato sauce provides lycopene, which has been linked to reduced risk of certain types of cancer.
However, it’s important to note that the high calorie and fat content of this dish should be considered when making dietary choices.

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