Indulge in a hearty Italian classic with our mouthwatering stuffed shells recipe featuring savory ground meat. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, these tender pasta shells are generously filled with a flavorful mixture of seasoned meat and creamy cheese, then baked to golden perfection.
Prepare to delight your taste buds with each delicious bite as the rich flavors of the meat blend seamlessly with the creamy cheese and tangy tomato sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this comforting dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
stuffed shells recipe with meat
Ingredients:
- 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture with the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the meat and cheese mixture, then arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged in the baking dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring that all the shells are covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the shells.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your savory stuffed shells with meat!
tips for stuffed shells recipe with meat
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your stuffed shells with meat turn out perfectly:
- Cook the pasta shells al dente: Be sure not to overcook the pasta shells when boiling them. They should be cooked just until they are tender but still slightly firm, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Season the meat mixture well: Make sure to season the ground meat mixture with a good balance of herbs and spices for maximum flavor. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed before stuffing the shells.
- Use a piping bag or spoon: To easily fill the pasta shells with the meat and cheese mixture, you can use a piping bag or a spoon. A piping bag can help you fill the shells more evenly and neatly, but a spoon works just fine too.
- Choose quality ingredients: Use high-quality cheeses and marinara sauce for the best flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and whole milk ricotta cheese will yield superior results compared to pre-shredded or low-fat options.
- Add extra cheese on top: For a cheesy crust on top of the stuffed shells, be generous with the shredded mozzarella cheese. This will create a gooey and golden brown topping that everyone will love.
- Let the dish rest before serving: Allow the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes after baking before serving. This will help the flavors to meld together and make it easier to portion out the shells without them falling apart.
- Customize the recipe: Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences. You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the meat mixture, or experiment with different types of cheese for added variety.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying dish of stuffed shells with meat that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
nutritional table for stuffed shells
Here’s a basic nutritional table for stuffed shells with meat based on approximate values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| – Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| – Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 20 g |
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in the recipe. Adjustments may be needed for accuracy based on the actual ingredients and quantities used.
customization table for the stuffed shells
customization table for the stuffed shells with meat recipe, allowing you to adjust the ingredients and quantities according to your preferences:
| Ingredient | Customizable Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jumbo Pasta Shells | Adjust based on servings | Use as needed for desired quantity |
| Ground Meat | Adjust based on servings | Choose beef, turkey, or pork |
| Onion | Adjust to taste | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | Adjust to taste | Minced |
| Dried Oregano | Adjust to taste | Optional, for seasoning |
| Dried Basil | Adjust to taste | Optional, for seasoning |
| Salt | Adjust to taste | Optional, for seasoning |
| Black Pepper | Adjust to taste | Optional, for seasoning |
| Ricotta Cheese | Adjust to taste | Use as needed for desired texture |
| Mozzarella Cheese | Adjust to taste | Use as needed for desired texture |
| Parmesan Cheese | Adjust to taste | Use as needed for desired flavor |
| Egg | Adjust to taste | Optional, for binding |
| Marinara Sauce | Adjust to taste | Use as needed for desired coverage |
Feel free to customize the recipe by adjusting the amounts of each ingredient based on your preferences and dietary requirements. You can also add or omit ingredients as desired to suit your taste.
How to Store & Freeze meat stuffed shells
Here’s how to store and freeze stuffed shells with meat:
Storage:
If you have leftovers, allow the stuffed shells to cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days
Freezing:
- If you want to freeze the stuffed shells for later use, follow these steps:
- Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely.
- Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer and flash-freeze the stuffed shells for about 1-2 hours, or until they are firm.
- Once frozen, transfer the stuffed shells to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Be sure to label the container with the date and contents.
- Store the stuffed shells in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing and Reheating:
When you’re ready to enjoy the stuffed shells, you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can reheat them directly from frozen. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
By following these storage and freezing instructions, you can enjoy delicious stuffed shells with meat whenever you crave them, whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
What goes good with stuffed shells
here are the side dishes that pair well with stuffed shells:
- Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread or garlic knots are perfect for soaking up the sauce and adding extra flavor to your meal.
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing adds freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the stuffed shells.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus on the side for a healthy and colorful addition to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes complement the savory flavors of the stuffed shells and add texture to the plate.
- Antipasto Platter: Create a spread of Italian meats, cheeses, olives, and roasted peppers for a flavorful and satisfying appetizer or side dish.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing pairs beautifully with stuffed shells.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh slices of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a light and refreshing side dish.
- Crusty Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side for dipping into the sauce and mopping up every last bit of goodness.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad with seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus adds sweetness and a burst of freshness to the meal.
- Wine: Pair stuffed shells with a glass of your favorite red or white wine, such as Chianti, Pinot Noir, or Chardonnay, to enhance the dining experience.
These side dishes complement the flavors and textures of stuffed shells with meat, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal for any occasion.
FAQ’S
How long does it take to boil jumbo shells?
- Jumbo shells typically take about 10-12 minutes to cook in boiling water. Follow the package instructions for best results.
What is the difference between stuffed shells and manicotti?
- Stuffed shells are large pasta shells that are filled with a savory mixture and baked in a sauce, while manicotti are tube-shaped pasta that is also filled and baked similarly.
At what temperature do you bake stuffed shells?
- Stuffed shells are typically baked in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How do you keep stuffed shells from sticking together?
- To prevent stuffed shells from sticking together, make sure they are fully cooked and drained before stuffing. You can also toss them lightly with olive oil after cooking to prevent sticking.
Why are my stuffed shells runny?
- Stuffed shells may become runny if they are overfilled with filling or if the cheese used in the filling releases too much moisture during baking. To prevent this, make sure to drain excess liquid from the filling ingredients before stuffing the shells.
How do you keep jumbo shells from falling apart?
- To keep jumbo shells from falling apart, be sure not to overcook them during boiling. Cook them just until they are al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly in the oven during baking.
What are the big stuffed pasta shells called?
- The big stuffed pasta shells are called jumbo shells or conchiglioni.
Can stuffed shells be left out overnight?
- It is not recommended to leave stuffed shells out at room temperature overnight as they contain perishable ingredients like cheese and meat. Refrigerate any leftovers promptly and consume within a few days.
How long does it take for stuffed shells to go bad?
- Stuffed shells can spoil if left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. When refrigerated, they should be consumed within 3-4 days to ensure freshness.
How long does it take to boil shells?
- The cooking time for shells can vary depending on the size and type. Generally, it takes about 9-11 minutes to boil shells until they are al dente.
How much water do I need for 1 cup of pasta shells?
- You’ll typically need about 4-6 cups of water for every 1 cup of pasta shells, depending on the size of the pot and the amount of pasta being cooked. Use enough water to ensure the shells have plenty of room to cook evenly without sticking together.