Dive into the comforting world of stuffed shells with ground beef, a classic Italian-American dish that brings hearty flavors to your table. These plump pasta shells are generously filled with a savory beef mixture and topped with gooey cheese, making them a family favorite. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is sure to delight everyone. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful meal!
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 stuffed shell) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. This is based on a serving size of one stuffed shell.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your 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 garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Combine the beef mixture with the cheese mixture until well blended.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and top with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a lighter option. You can also use dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan alternative. Spinach or mushrooms can be added to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
Serving and Pairings
Stuffed shells pair beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine complements the rich flavors of the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Stuffed shells can also be frozen before baking for up to 3 months; just bake from frozen, adding extra time.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta will make it too soft to hold the filling.
- Not draining the ground beef can make the dish greasy.
- Using too much sauce can make the shells soggy.
- Skipping the cheese topping will lessen the flavor.
- Not allowing the dish to rest after baking can result in messy servings.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- Try adding crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
- Pre-cook the filling for enhanced flavors.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for unique tastes.
- Make it ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of jumbo shells?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape, but the cooking time may vary. Ensure the pasta is large enough to hold the filling if not using shells.
What can I serve with stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells are great with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. They also pair well with a light pasta dish or soup.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or chopped mushrooms, and use vegetable-based cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or use spicy marinara sauce for an extra kick.
Can I prepare stuffed shells in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This makes for an easy weeknight meal.
Conclusion
Stuffed shells with ground beef are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is versatile, allowing for substitutions and variations to suit your taste. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s sure to be a hit at your table!
Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your 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 garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Combine the beef mixture with the cheese mixture until well blended.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and top with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
