Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef
Indulge in a comforting dish of stuffed shells with ground beef, where tender pasta shells are generously filled with a savory beef mixture, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with gooey cheese. This hearty meal is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or special gatherings. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 24 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, with an additional cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 25g of fat. This is based on standard serving sizes and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
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 until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat and add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this dish by substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or using spinach and ricotta for a vegetarian version. Additionally, opt for gluten-free pasta shells to cater to dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
Serve your stuffed shells with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave. This dish can also be frozen; just ensure they are well-covered to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make shells difficult to stuff.
- Not seasoning the beef can lead to bland filling.
- Using too much sauce can make the shells soggy.
- Forgetting to cover with foil while baking may result in burnt cheese.
- Not allowing the dish to rest before serving can lead to messy plating.
Helpful Tips
- Use a piping bag for easy filling of the shells.
- Mix in some chopped vegetables for added nutrition.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I prepare stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
Alfredo sauce or a homemade tomato sauce can be excellent alternatives for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the stuffed shells are done?
They are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the shells are lightly golden.
Can I use other types of pasta?
While jumbo shells are traditional, other pasta shapes like manicotti or even lasagna noodles can be used creatively.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The cheesy filling and flavorful sauce make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
Stuffed shells with ground beef is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this dish is perfect for family meals or entertaining guests. Try it today and savor every bite!
Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 24 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 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 until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat and add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.