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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and satisfaction of a cheesy pasta meal. Among the myriad of pasta recipes out there, Green Chili Pasta Shells with Cheese stands out as a delightful fusion of flavors, offering a unique twist on traditional stuffed pasta. This dish combines the creaminess of various cheeses with the invigorating heat of green chilies, creating a mouthwatering experience that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you're serving it up for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these pasta shells are sure to impress with their vibrant taste and inviting presentation.

Green Chili Pasta Shells with Cheese

Indulge in the deliciousness of Green Chili Pasta Shells with Cheese! This comforting dish combines jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, with a bold kick from green chilies. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this recipe not only delivers on flavor but also highlights fresh ingredients like spinach for added nutrition. Embrace the joy of cooking and savor every bite of this unique pasta creation!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz jumbo pasta shells

2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies, drained

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon olive oil

1 cup marinara sauce

Optional: Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they reach an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

    Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped fresh spinach, ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, drained diced green chilies, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Using a spatula or spoon, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they form a cohesive filling.

      Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Taking each cooked pasta shell, use a spoon to generously fill it with the prepared cheese and spinach filling. Place each stuffed shell upright in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, ensuring they are closely packed but not squished.

        Add Marinara Sauce: Once all the shells are stuffed, evenly pour the marinara sauce over the entire dish, making sure each shell is well coated to keep them moist during baking.

          Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara sauce, creating a delicious cheesy layer on top.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excess browning. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and has developed a light golden color.

              Serve: Once finished, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving warm to enhance the dish’s visual appeal.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                  - Presentation Tips: For an attractive serving, place the stuffed shells on individual plates and drizzle with a little extra marinara sauce, garnished with finely chopped herbs for color and freshness.