Sausage, Ricotta, and Spinach Stuffed Shells

picture and recipe adapted from Craving Some Creativity

Ingredients

• 1 package jumbo pasta shells 16oz
• 4 cups ricotta or cottage cheese
• 12 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 Eggs lightly beaten
• 4 tsp garlic powder 
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3/4 cup parmesan grated or shredded is fine
• 1 large jar spaghetti sauce
• 4 cups spinach rough chopped and stems removed if you prefer
• 1 lb ground Italian sausage

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown and crumble the sausage. Drain any excess fat and remove from heat. In the same saucepan, cook spinach until wilted or about 1-2 minutes. Cook the shells according to package directions.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, 8oz of mozzarella, 1/2 cup of parmesan, eggs, oregano, and garlic powder. Stir in the spinach.
3. Coat the bottom of a 9x13in pan with the entire jar of spaghetti sauce. Spoon the cheese mixture into the shells and place shells open side up, very close together in the dish. 
4. Sprinkle the sausage over the top of the shells. Then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350 degrees F for 25-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly. If you like a cheesy crust, you may broil it uncovered for 3-5 minutes (watch closely). Let stand 10 minutes before serving.