Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish that will satisfy your whole family, stuffed shells with meat and cheese are the way to go. This classic Italian-American recipe combines savory meat, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, all baked to perfection in a marinara sauce. Whether you're planning a dinner party or simply need a comforting dish for the weeknight, this recipe will not disappoint. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to make the best stuffed shells with meat and cheese you’ve ever had!

What Are “Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese”?

Stuffed shells with meat and cheese are large pasta shells filled with a delicious mixture of ground meat (commonly beef or Italian sausage), ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. They are smothered in marinara sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. This dish is a wonderful blend of rich flavors and textures, offering a satisfying bite of tender pasta, flavorful meat, and creamy cheese with every forkful. It’s a staple in many households and a crowd-pleaser for all occasions.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious batch of stuffed shells with meat and cheese:

• Large pasta shells: 20-24 jumbo pasta shells, boiled and drained.
• Ground meat: 1 pound of ground beef, pork, or a mix of Italian sausage and beef.
• Ricotta cheese: 2 cups of ricotta cheese for a creamy filling.
• Mozzarella cheese: 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided.
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Egg: 1 large egg to help bind the filling.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves minced garlic for depth of flavor.
• Onion: 1 small onion, finely diced.
• Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning for that authentic Italian flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Marinara sauce: 3 cups of marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought.
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon for sautéing.
• Fresh parsley or basil: Optional garnish for added color and flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this stuffed shells recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground meat options: Instead of ground beef, try ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a different flavor profile. You can also use plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese variations: If you want to switch things up, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese, or add provolone or fontina cheese to the mix for extra creaminess and flavor.
• Sauce alternatives: While marinara sauce is classic, you can use a creamy Alfredo sauce or a pesto for a different twist on this dish.
• Vegetable additions: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat and cheese mixture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the best stuffed shells with meat and cheese:

1. Cook the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until they are al dente, following the package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse the shells with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Prepare the meat filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the meat: Add the ground meat (beef, sausage, or your choice) to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat with the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large baking dish by spreading 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom.
6. Stuff the shells: Using a spoon, carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
7. Top with sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are evenly covered. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
8. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Cook Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re new to cooking stuffed shells, follow this detailed guide to ensure you get the best results:

1. Choose your pasta: Jumbo pasta shells are key for this dish, as they can hold a good amount of filling. Make sure to cook them al dente, as they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
2. Create a balanced filling: The meat and cheese mixture should be flavorful but not too dry. The addition of an egg helps bind the filling, while the combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan ensures creaminess and depth of flavor.
3. Don’t skimp on sauce: Generously cover the shells with marinara sauce before baking. The sauce keeps the pasta from drying out and adds richness to the dish.
4. Bake for perfection: Baking the dish covered allows the flavors to meld together, while removing the cover toward the end helps achieve a golden, cheesy top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta shells: Make sure your shells are cooked al dente so they don’t become mushy during baking.
• Using too little sauce: Under-saucing can lead to dry shells. Ensure that each shell is generously covered with sauce.
• Not seasoning the filling: Be sure to season your meat and cheese mixture well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to avoid bland stuffed shells.
• Overstuffing the shells: Don’t try to cram too much filling into the shells, as this can cause them to split during baking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Stuffed shells with meat and cheese are a comforting dish that looks beautiful when served hot and bubbling straight from the oven. Here are some presentation ideas to make your meal even more appealing:

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

• Family-style: Serve the shells directly from the baking dish at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This casual style is perfect for a cozy family dinner.
• Individual portions: Plate three to four stuffed shells per person, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and some chopped basil or parsley.
• With sides: Pair the stuffed shells with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

• Garnish generously: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a burst of color and flavor. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
• Layer for effect: If serving in a large dish, layer some extra sauce and cheese on top before baking for a more dramatic presentation.
• Serve in individual ramekins: For a more elegant presentation, divide the shells into individual oven-safe dishes and bake them for personal servings.

Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells up to a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is a great option for busy weeknights.
• Freezing: Stuffed shells freeze well! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Add a kick: If you like a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or use spicy Italian sausage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to bake. You can also freeze them before baking for longer storage.
2. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
   You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese as a substitute for ricotta in this recipe.
3. How do I prevent the shells from sticking together while cooking?
   After draining the pasta shells, rinse them with cold water and toss them with a little olive oil to keep them from sticking.
4. Can I make a vegetarian version of stuffed shells?
   Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling.
5. How long do leftovers last?
   Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells with meat and cheese are a delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a combination of tender pasta, savory meat, and creamy cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with the versatility to customize the filling and sauce, you can make it your own! Whether you’re preparing this meal ahead of time or serving it fresh from the oven, stuffed shells are guaranteed to satisfy. Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, hearty dinner that everyone will love!

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