If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, stuffed shells with ground beef are a perfect choice. This dish features large pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cheese, and herbs, all baked in a rich tomato sauce. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 450 calories, 30g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef; mix well.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and the egg.
- Stir the cooked beef into the cheese mixture until well combined.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use sautéed vegetables or lentils in place of meat. Dairy-free options can include plant-based cheese and ricotta alternatives.
Serving and Pairings
These stuffed shells pair beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. A glass of red wine or a sparkling water with lemon can complement the flavors nicely, making for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can freeze the stuffed shells before baking; just thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushy shells.
- Not draining excess fat from the beef can make the dish greasy.
- Using too much filling can cause shells to break.
- Forgetting to cover with sauce may result in dry shells.
- Baking at too high a temperature can burn the cheese topping.
Helpful Tips
- Use a piping bag for easier filling of the shells.
- Experiment with spices to customize the flavor.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving; it helps set the filling.
- Garnish with fresh basil for added flavor and presentation.
FAQs
Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve for a convenient meal.
What sauce is best for stuffed shells?
Marinara sauce is the classic choice, but you can also use Alfredo or a homemade tomato sauce for different flavors.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in different cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or a blend of Italian cheeses to enhance the taste.
Are stuffed shells gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta shells to make this dish gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
How do I know when the stuffed shells are done?
They are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is hot throughout.
Conclusion
Stuffed shells with ground beef are a delightful and filling dish that can fit any occasion. With their cheesy, savory filling and rich tomato sauce, they are bound to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and customize, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef; mix well.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and the egg.
- Stir the cooked beef into the cheese mixture until well combined.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
