Stuffed shells with meat—an absolute favorite in my kitchen and soon to be in yours. This dish is hearty, bursting with flavors, and a guaranteed show-stopper at any dinner table. Let’s dive into how to craft these delicious parcels of joy.

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Total Servings: 6
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

When making stuffed shells with meat, having the right equipment can make all the difference. You’ll need:

Large pot
Strainer
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Skillet
Baking dish

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Jumbo pasta shells	24 shells
Ricotta cheese	1 cup
Ground beef	1 lb
Marinara sauce	3 cups
Shredded mozzarella cheese	1 1/2 cups
Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup
Egg	1 large
Fresh parsley	1/4 cup, chopped
Garlic powder	1 tsp
Salt	1 tsp
Pepper	1/2 tsp

Fact: Did you know that jumbo shells were first used in Italian cuisine to make dishes more filling and to add a creative twist to pasta dishes?

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1- Prepare the Pasta

Boil the pasta shells as per the package instructions until they are al dente.
Drain and set aside on a clean cloth to cool.

Be sure not to overcook the shells; they should be firm enough to hold their shape when stuffed.

Step 2- Cook the Meat

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool.

Cooking the meat thoroughly is key to avoiding any foodborne illnesses.

Step 3- Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, the egg, and parsley.
Add the cooled meat and mix until well combined.

A good mix ensures each shell is uniformly flavorful.

Step 4- Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
Fill each pasta shell with the cheese and meat mixture and place in the baking dish.

Fill the shells generously for a truly decadent experience.

Step 5- Bake

Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells.
Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

The golden cheese top is not just delicious, it’s also a perfect texture play against the soft pasta.

Additional Tips

If you have leftover filling, it can be frozen for another batch or used as a terrific dip!
Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give these stuffed shells with meat an extra kick.

Pairing Suggestions

Stuffed shells with meat are robust and versatile. Try pairing with:

A simple green salad
Garlic bread
A light red wine such as Chianti

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450 kcal
Carbohydrates	35g
Protein	25g
Fat	20g
Sodium	690mg
Fiber	2g

Approximation: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Dietary Information

This recipe is perfect for those following a high-protein diet. To adapt it for a gluten-free diet, simply use gluten-free pasta shells!

FAQs about Stuffed Shells with Meat

Why do my pasta shells tear?

To prevent tearing, make sure the water is boiling before adding the pasta and avoid overcooking. Use a gentle touch when handling.

Can I prepare stuffed shells with meat ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time when ready to bake.

What’s the best way to reheat stuffed shells?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This method helps retain the texture of the pasta.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, swapping in different cheeses like smoked mozzarella or a bit of gouda can add a new flavor profile.

Are stuffed shells with meat freezer friendly?

They are! Freeze before baking and cover tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

How do I keep my stuffed shells from drying out while baking?

Covering them with foil for the first half of baking helps keep the moisture in.

What other meats can I use in stuffed shells?

Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells with meat are more than just a meal; they’re a comforting embrace in the form of food. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd or just satisfying your hearty pasta cravings. Dive into making this recipe and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.