Did you know you can cook pasta in the slow cooker? We took raw pasta shells and cooked them directly in the slow cooker for our Stuffed Shells with Spinach.

We started with large uncooked pasta shells and filled them with a combination of frozen spinach, mozzarella cheese, creamy ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, fresh garlic and Italian seasoning. Use a spoon and to fill the shells with the cheese mixture. We found that running the shells under warm water for a few seconds helps to soften them, making them easier to fill. Once the shells are filled, layer them directly in the crock. Top the first layer with extra tomato sauce (use homemade or your favorite jarred variety from the grocery store) and cheese. Add another layer of shells and close the lid.

Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle a little more cheese on top, garnish with fresh parsley and dinner is served. Not only is this an easy meal to make, it’s a simple way to get your kids to eat their vegetables. Serve with garlic bread or a salad for an well-rounded Italian dinner.