These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a hearty delight, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Bursting with flavors from the ground beef and enhanced by a rich marinara sauce, this dish is a comfort food classic. Enjoying these stuffed shells will create warm memories at every gathering, making them suitable for any occasion. The combination of creamy ricotta and savory meat creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: This recipe is simple enough for weeknight cooking yet impressive enough for guests.
- Flavor-packed: The blend of meat, cheese, and spices creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Versatile for meal prep: Perfectly portioned, these shells can easily be stored and reheated for later meals.
- Kid-friendly: Cheesy goodness appeals to all ages, making it a family favorite.
- Perfectly baked: Enjoy a golden-brown layer of melted cheese on top that adds an extra delicious touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting the cooking process, gather your tools to make the preparation seamless.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- 13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and browning meat evenly.
- Baking dish: A good-sized dish ensures all your stuffed shells fit comfortably without overcrowding.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls allows you to combine ingredients effectively without any mess.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3/4 – 1 lb ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Filling
- 32 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup cooked spinach, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan
For the Pasta Shells
- 1 box jumbo shells
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, for serving
How to Make Stuffed Shells with Meat
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook Pasta
Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions. Drain them and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
* Sauté the diced bell peppers until soft.
* Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
* Stir in the marinara sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
* Let it simmer briefly before setting aside.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In a large bowl:
* Mix together ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 5: Stuff the Shells
Fill each cooked jumbo shell generously with the ricotta mixture. Ensure they are well-packed.
Step 6: Assemble
Spread some meat sauce in the bottom of a 13-inch baking dish.
* Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer over this sauce.
* Pour remaining meat sauce over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
* Afterward, sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
* Increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until cheese melts beautifully.
* For best results, broil for a few minutes to achieve a golden top.
Step 8: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your deliciously cheesy stuffed shells!
How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat
Stuffed shells with meat are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add some flair, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Classic Presentation
- Serve the stuffed shells directly from the baking dish for a rustic feel.
- Pair with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
With Garlic Bread
- Offer warm garlic bread on the side to complement the cheesy flavors.
- The crispy texture is perfect for scooping up any remaining sauce.
Side Salad
- A light side salad with mixed greens adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.
- Consider a simple vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing contrast.
Topped with Extra Cheese
- For cheese lovers, add an extra layer of mozzarella on top before serving.
- This creates a gooey, indulgent topping that enhances the flavor.
Family Style
- Serve in individual portions on plates for a more elegant dining experience.
- Garnish each plate with additional cheese and herbs.
How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat
Perfecting stuffed shells with meat is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality meats make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the jumbo shells al dente so they hold their shape when stuffed and baked.
- Pack Filling Generously: Make sure each shell is well-filled for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Simmer Sauce: Allow your marinara sauce to simmer longer for deeper flavors before layering it in the dish.
- Broil for Perfection: Finish under the broiler briefly to achieve a bubbly, golden top without drying out the cheese.
Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat
Pairing side dishes with your stuffed shells can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting dish perfectly.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic enhances nutrition and flavor.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a crunchy contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while keeping things healthy.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar create a refreshing side.
- Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative that pairs well with marinara sauce while adding extra veggies.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a delightful crunch and sweetness that balances the savory stuffed shells.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making stuffed shells can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the meat sauce and cheese filling can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the jumbo shells too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente, as they’ll cook more in the oven.
Not packing the filling: Under-filling or loosely packing the shells can lead to a messy dish. Make sure to fill each shell generously for a satisfying bite.
Using low-quality cheese: Opting for inexpensive cheeses can affect your dish’s creaminess and flavor. Use good-quality ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for the best results.
Neglecting to cover while baking: Failing to cover the dish while it bakes may dry out the filled shells. Cover with foil initially, then uncover for browning at the end.
Rushing the cooling process: Cutting into your dish too soon after baking can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool slightly before serving for better presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Containers: Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.
Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil wrap.
Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or marinara sauce until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about preparing Stuffed Shells with Meat that might help you out!
Can I use different types of meat in stuffed shells?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors or want a leaner option.
How do I prevent my stuffed shells from breaking?
Make sure to cook your jumbo shells al dente and handle them gently when stuffing and placing them in the baking dish.
Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking or freeze them for later use.
What should I serve with my stuffed shells?
Stuffed Shells with Meat pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed Shells with Meat are an ideal comfort food that combines rich sauce, creamy cheese, and hearty meat. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile—feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese. Give this delicious dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Stuffed Shells with Meat
Indulge in the comforting delight of Stuffed Shells with Meat, a dish that’s sure to become a favorite at family dinners and gatherings. These hearty jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, combined with savory ground beef, and baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese, each bite is a burst of flavor that warms the soul. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, these stuffed shells can be enjoyed anytime you crave classic Italian comfort food.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3/4 – 1 lb ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 32 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup cooked spinach, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan
- 1 box jumbo shells
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced bell peppers until soft, then add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; simmer briefly.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and salt until well combined.
- Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture.
- Spread some meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish and arrange stuffed shells on top. Pour remaining meat sauce over the shells.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, increase temperature to 375°F (190°C), and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (about 290g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg