Stuffed Shells

Serves 4 (generously)

45 Minutes

18 jumbo pasta shells (about 6 oz.)

1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more

2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 lb. cremini mushrooms, minced

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup dry white wine or vermouth

5 oz. baby spinach. minced

6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

2 Tbsp. unsalted butter

3 cups marinara sauce

1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

2 cups whole-milk ricotta (or 1 cup ricotta and 1.5 cups mozzarella) 

3 oz. finely grated Parmesan (about 1 cup), plus more for serving

3 Tbsp. finely chopped oregano, divided

Cook shells in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until very al dente, about 9 minutes; drain. Run under cold water to stop the cooking; drain again.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over high. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release juices, then are dry again and nicely browned, 5–6 minutes; season with black pepper and 1 tsp. salt. Reduce heat to medium, add wine, and cook, stirring, until reduced by half, 1–2 minutes. Add spinach, cover, and cook until beginning to wilt, 1–2 minutes. Uncover and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until spinach is completely wilted and most of the liquid is evaporated, 2–4 minutes more. In same skillet, cook garlic and butter  over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until garlic is fragrant and beginning to brown, 2–3 minutes. Add marinara sauce and red pepper and bring to a simmer over low heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, 6–8 minutes.

While sauce cooks, add ricotta, Parmesan, oregano, and remaining 1/2 tsp. salt to mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Spoon about 2 Tbsp. ricotta mixture into each shell. The shell should be filled to capacity but not overstuffed.

Nestle stuffed shells into an oven proof pan. Cook at 350 for 10 minutes on broil.

Calories per serving: 879