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Cottage Cheese Stuffed Shells

Delicious pasta shells filled with creamy cottage cheese and rich marinara sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 12 pieces large pasta shells
  • 2 cups cottage cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups spinach, chopped (optional) Can be omitted if desired

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for greasing

Sauce

  • 3 cups marinara sauce Can substitute with other sauces

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  • Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach (if using), garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Assembly

  • Fill each pasta shell with the cottage cheese mixture, about 2 tablespoons per shell. Place the filled shells in the prepared baking dish, seam-side up.
  • Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the filled shells.
  • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the marinara sauce.

Baking

  • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving.

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Notes

These stuffed shells freeze well and can be reheated easily. For creamy filling, blend the cottage cheese before use. Add different vegetables or spices for variety. Serve with salad or garlic bread.
Keyword Comfort Food, Cottage Cheese, Family Meal, pasta, Stuffed Shells