Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese Recipe

Are you looking for a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This stuffed shells with meat and cheese recipe combines savory meat, creamy cheese, and a rich tomato sauce to create a meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or even meal prepping for the week, stuffed shells are a great choice. Stay with us as we dive into the recipe step by step, offer substitutions, and share tips to perfect your stuffed shells. Let’s get started!

this Recipe

What Are Stuffed Shells?

Stuffed shells are a classic Italian-American pasta dish made by filling large pasta shells with a flavorful mixture, typically consisting of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, and seasoned ground meat. The stuffed shells are then arranged in a baking dish, topped with marinara sauce, and baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The result is a delicious, cheesy, meaty pasta dish that’s comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese

Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need to create your stuffed shells with meat and cheese:

For the Shells and Filling:

• Jumbo pasta shells – You’ll need about 20-25 large pasta shells for this recipe. These are readily available in most grocery stores.
• Ground beef or sausage – About 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage will provide a savory, meaty filling.
• Ricotta cheese – Use 1 ½ cups of ricotta for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese – You’ll need 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, both for the filling and topping.
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup of grated parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Egg – One large egg helps bind the filling together.
• Garlic – Two cloves of minced garlic will enhance the flavor of the meat and cheese mixture.
• Fresh parsley or basil – Add ¼ cup of chopped fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
• Salt and pepper – To season the meat and cheese filling to taste.

For the Sauce:

• Marinara sauce – Use 3-4 cups of your favorite marinara sauce. You can use store-bought or homemade.
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
• Onion – One small onion, finely chopped, adds a sweet and savory depth to the sauce.

Optional Extras:

• Red pepper flakes – For those who like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice up the sauce.
• Spinach or mushrooms – Add 1 cup of sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the filling for a vegetable boost.
• Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for extra flavor in the sauce or filling.

Substitutions and Variations

There are several ways to customize this stuffed shells recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

1. Meat Options:
   If you’re not a fan of beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead. You could also make a vegetarian version by substituting the meat with finely chopped sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
2. Cheese Variations:
   While this recipe calls for ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, you can try other cheeses like cottage cheese, provolone, or even a bit of cream cheese for an extra creamy filling. For a stronger flavor, add some pecorino Romano or asiago to the cheese mixture.
3. Gluten-Free Option:
   To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap regular pasta shells for gluten-free jumbo shells, available at most health food stores.
4. Vegan Stuffed Shells:
   For a vegan version, use plant-based ground meat, dairy-free ricotta, and mozzarella substitutes. There are excellent vegan cheese options available that melt and taste similar to their dairy counterparts.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, let’s walk through the process of making these stuffed shells. It’s easy to follow, even for beginner cooks!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure not to overcook the shells, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, if using. Drain excess fat if needed, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, and one beaten egg. Add chopped parsley or basil for extra flavor. Stir in the cooked meat mixture until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up. Once all the shells are filled and arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the shells.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the stuffed shells are out of the oven, let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with more fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy this delicious, cheesy, and hearty meal!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta:
   Be sure to cook the shells until they’re just al dente. Overcooked pasta will become too soft and break apart when you try to fill them.
2. Filling the Shells While They’re Too Hot:
   Allow the pasta to cool slightly before filling them. Hot shells are more likely to tear.
3. Using Too Much Sauce:
   While sauce is important, using too much can cause the shells to become soggy. Be mindful of the amount you pour over the dish.
4. Skipping the Resting Period:
   Letting the dish rest for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to set, making it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Stuffed shells are not only delicious, but they can also be visually appealing if plated correctly. Here are some presentation ideas:

How to Serve Stuffed Shells

Serve the stuffed shells directly from the baking dish, or for a more refined presentation, plate three to four shells per person on individual plates. Drizzle some extra marinara sauce on top and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley or basil.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Shells

• Rustic Style: Serve in the baking dish, garnished with sprigs of fresh herbs and a side of garlic bread for a homey, rustic feel.
• Elevated Plating: Arrange the stuffed shells in a circular pattern on a white plate, drizzling the sauce around the edges and finishing with a sprinkle of parmesan.
• Family-Style: Place the baking dish in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves, offering bowls of extra cheese and fresh herbs.

Stuffed Shells Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
• Freezing: These stuffed shells freeze beautifully! Simply assemble the shells in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
• Extra Flavor: Try adding some crushed fennel seeds or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a bit more complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?

Yes! Stuffed shells can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake when ready, or freeze for up to three months.

How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Shells?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I Make Stuffed Shells Without Meat?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?

While jumbo shells are traditional, you can use manicotti tubes as a substitute. However, shells are easier to fill and hold the mixture better.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells with meat and cheese are the ultimate comfort food—a delightful combination of tender pasta, savory meat, and melted cheese all baked in a delicious marinara sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep, and it’s versatile enough for various dietary preferences. Follow our tips and step-by-step guide to create the perfect stuffed shells at home. Don’t forget to experiment with your own variations and enjoy this hearty, satisfying meal!

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