Stuffed Shells

Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. This recipe is simple to make, incredibly tasty, and easily customizable to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re a busy parent or a novice cook, Stuffed Shells can be your go-to meal that everyone will love.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 405
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 640mg

Why Make Stuffed Shells

Stuffed Shells are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of ground meat and cheeses provides a hearty meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, you can easily adapt this recipe to include your favorite ingredients, such as vegetables or different types of cheese. With its versatility and adaptability, Stuffed Shells are a fantastic dish for family dinners or meal prep.

How to Make Stuffed Shells Step by Step

Ingredients:

• jumbo pasta shells
• ground meat (beef, turkey, or sausage)
• ricotta cheese
• mozzarella cheese
• parmesan cheese
• spinach (optional)
• marinara sauce
• egg
• garlic
• onion
• salt
• pepper
• olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.
4. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
5. In a bowl, combine cooked meat, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, parmesan, egg, spinach (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
6. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture.
7. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, then place the stuffed shells on top. Pour the remaining marinara over the shells and top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Stuffed Shells

Stuffed Shells are best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with a fresh side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Crusty garlic bread also makes a great accompaniment, allowing you to soak up that delicious marinara sauce. For a brighter touch, serve with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top.

How to Store Stuffed Shells

To store leftover Stuffed Shells, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you want to freeze them, ensure they are cooled completely before placing in freezer-safe containers. For best quality, consume frozen Stuffed Shells within 3 months.

Expert Tips for Cooking Stuffed Shells

• Cook pasta shells al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy after baking.
• Experiment with different fillings, like adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meat mixture.
• For a creamier sauce, mix in a little cream cheese with ricotta.
• Reserve some marinara sauce to drizzle over the top before serving for added flavor.
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to make serving easier.

Delicious Variations of Stuffed Shells

For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. If you want a herbed version, toss in fresh herbs like parsley and basil for an aromatic flavor. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with lentils or a mix of sautéed vegetables, making it a family-friendly dish that everyone can enjoy.

Stuffed Shells are an easy-to-make meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its satisfying flavors and simple preparation, it’s a dish that you’ll find yourself making again and again. So why not grab your ingredients and give Stuffed Shells a try? You’ll love the hearty goodness in every bite!

Stuffed Shells

Stuffed Shells are a delightful and comforting dish that is easy to make, versatile, and loved by everyone. Perfect for family dinners and meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 405

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Filling

• 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or sausage) Choose your preferred type of meat.
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese Shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese Grated
• 1 cup spinach Optional
• 1 large egg

Sauce and Seasoning

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cloves garlic Minced
• 1 medium onion Chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.
4. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
5. In a bowl, combine cooked meat, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, parmesan, egg, spinach (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assembly and Baking

1. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture.
2. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, then place the stuffed shells on top.
3. Pour the remaining marinara over the shells and top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Stuffed Shells are best served warm. Pair them with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. To store, place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.