 |
| Stuffed Shells with Meat |
Stuffed shells with meat are the perfect combination of hearty, flavorful filling and tender pasta, baked together with a generous helping of marinara sauce and melted cheese. This dish is a classic Italian-American favorite, offering a satisfying meal that's ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting guests, stuffed shells with meat will impress everyone at the table.
This recipe features jumbo pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, ricotta cheese, and herbs, all baked to perfection in a bed of marinara sauce. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dish at home with simple ingredients and easy steps.
Why Make Stuffed Shells with Meat?
Stuffed shells with meat are an excellent choice for a hearty and crowd-pleasing meal. They’re:
- Flavorful: The blend of seasoned meat, creamy ricotta, and savory marinara creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- Comforting: It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the shells ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredients for Stuffed Shells with Meat
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
|
Ingredient |
Quantity |
|
Jumbo pasta shells |
20–25 shells |
|
Ground beef (or Italian sausage) |
1 lb (450 g) |
|
Ricotta cheese |
1½ cups |
|
Shredded mozzarella cheese |
2 cups |
|
Grated Parmesan cheese |
½ cup |
|
Marinara sauce |
4 cups |
|
Egg |
1 large |
|
Garlic (minced) |
2 cloves |
|
Fresh parsley (chopped) |
¼ cup |
|
Italian seasoning |
1 tsp |
|
Salt |
To taste |
|
Black pepper |
To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
 |
| Stuffed Shells with Meat |
1. Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions.
- Drain the shells, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Filling
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease, then stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat and let the meat cool slightly.
3. Mix the Cheese Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped parsley. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooled meat to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Assemble the Stuffed Shells
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1½ cups of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the meat and cheese mixture, then arrange them in the baking dish, open side up.
- Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them evenly.
5. Add the Toppings and Bake
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan if desired.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on eight servings):
|
Nutrient |
Per Serving |
|
Calories |
400 kcal |
|
Protein |
22 g |
|
Carbohydrates |
30 g |
|
Fat |
20 g |
|
Fiber |
3 g |
|
Sodium |
600 mg |
Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat
- Cook the Pasta Carefully: Make sure the shells are al dente to avoid breaking when filling them.
- Customize the Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a blend of pork and beef for variety.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the shells up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
- Freeze for Later: Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Delicious Variations
- Add Vegetables: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for a kick of heat.
- Cheese Lovers' Delight: Include additional cheeses like provolone or fontina in the filling.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Stuffed shells with meat are a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s as comforting as it is versatile. The combination of tender pasta, rich meat filling, and creamy cheese is irresistible. Plus, the dish is simple to customize, making it easy to cater to various dietary preferences and flavor profiles.
How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat
Stuffed shells with meat are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also a great addition, perfect for soaking up the extra marinara sauce. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers, which complement the flavors beautifully.
If you’re hosting a dinner party or special occasion, stuffed shells can easily be the star of the menu. Serve them family-style in the baking dish, allowing guests to help themselves. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of elegance. This recipe not only impresses with its flavor but also with its presentation, making it a favorite for both casual meals and festive gatherings.
Conclusion
Stuffed shells with meat are a timeless classic that’s perfect for any occasion. From their rich, cheesy filling to their hearty marinara topping, every bite is a celebration of comforting, Italian-inspired flavors. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit.