Looking for a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for dinner? Check out these 1 serving (19.2 oz) Florentine Stuffed Shells (2000). With a calorie count of 680, this dish is sure to keep you full and satisfied.

In addition to being delicious, Florentine Stuffed Shells are also packed with nutritious ingredients. The filling is made with spinach, ricotta cheese, and a blend of Italian seasonings, while the shells are cooked to perfection and topped with marinara sauce.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at everything you need to know about Florentine Stuffed Shells, from the ingredients to the preparation method, benefits, and drawbacks.

Caloric Content

As mentioned earlier, 1 serving of Florentine Stuffed Shells (19.2 oz) contains 680 calories. This makes it a rather filling meal that can serve as a perfect dinner option. In addition, the dish contains protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients that can help keep you full and satisfied for longer periods of time. If you are concerned about managing your calorie intake, you can try reducing the portion size or swapping out some of the ingredients for lighter alternatives. For example, you can opt for low-fat ricotta cheese or use a smaller amount of marinara sauce. These small changes can make a big difference in terms of overall calories while still allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal.

Serving Size

The recommended serving size for Florentine Stuffed Shells is 1 (19.2 oz) serving per person. This can vary depending on your appetite and dietary needs, but in general, the dish is meant to serve as a filling meal that can stand on its own. If you are serving the dish as part of a larger meal, such as a potluck or buffet, you may want to adjust the serving size accordingly. You can also double the recipe or make larger batches to feed more people. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly for best results.

Ingredients

Florentine Stuffed Shells are made with a delicious blend of fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, Italian seasonings, and other flavorful ingredients. Here's what you'll need to make the dish:

• 1 package (19.2 oz) jumbo pasta shells
• 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Note that you can adjust the measurements and ingredients as needed to suit your preferences. For example, you can add more or less spinach, substitute different types of cheese, or change the seasonings to create a dish that is uniquely yours.

Preparation Method

Preparing Florentine Stuffed Shells is a relatively straightforward process that involves several steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spoon the cheese mixture into each pasta shell, filling it to the top.
4. Place the stuffed shells into a baking dish and pour marinara sauce over them.
5. Bake the dish in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Once the dish is cooked, you can garnish it with fresh herbs, additional cheese, or other toppings as desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Benefits of Florentine Stuffing

One of the main benefits of Florentine stuffing is that it is packed with nutritious greens, such as spinach. This means that you can enjoy a tasty and filling meal while also getting some essential vitamins and minerals. In addition, the ricotta cheese used in the filling provides a good source of protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time. The Italian seasonings also add a flavorful touch to the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser for all sorts of occasions.

Drawbacks of Florentine Stuffed Shells

One potential drawback of Florentine Stuffed Shells is that they can be high in calories, depending on the recipe and serving size. This means that if you are watching your caloric intake or trying to eat healthier, you may need to limit your consumption of the dish. Additionally, some people may not enjoy the flavor of spinach or other greens used in the stuffing. If this is the case, you can always try substituting different ingredients or adjusting the seasoning to suit your preferences.

Most Suitable Occasions for Serving Florentine Stuffed Shells

Florentine Stuffed Shells are a versatile dish that can be served in many different settings. Here are a few occasions when they can be particularly well-suited:

• Family dinners or potlucks
• Casual get-togethers with friends
• Holiday meals, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas
• Meal prep or make-ahead dishes for the week

The dish can be customized and adjusted to suit different dietary preferences, so you can easily adapt it to fit any occasion or group of people.

Alternatives to Traditional Recipe

If you want to experiment with different flavors or ingredients, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Use ground beef, turkey, or chicken instead of ricotta cheese for a more savory filling
• Add other types of vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrition
• Swap out the marinara sauce for Alfredo sauce or another creamy sauce for a different flavor profile
• Try using different types of pasta shells, such as manicotti or jumbo conchiglie

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and techniques to create a dish that is uniquely yours.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have any leftovers, you can easily store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish should keep for up to 4-5 days, although the texture and flavor may change slightly over time. To reheat, simply place the shells in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven by placing them in a baking dish and baking for 10-15 minutes at 350°F.

Pairings and Side Dishes

Florentine Stuffed Shells are a hearty and filling dish that can stand on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of other dishes and sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Garlic bread or garlic knots
• Caesar salad or other green salads
• Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts
• Grilled or roasted chicken or steak

Overall, Florentine Stuffed Shells are a delicious and satisfying dish that are sure to please. Whether you're serving them to a crowd or enjoying them as a weeknight meal, they are a great option for any occasion.