Stuffed Shells with Meat

Cheesy stuffed shells with meat are a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. These stuffed shells with meat are filled with a creamy ricotta mixture and topped with a rich marinara sauce, making them perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. With layers of flavor and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies dinner time with straightforward steps that anyone can follow.
• Flavor-Packed: Combining ground beef with spices and rich marinara sauce creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these stuffed shells will impress your guests.
• Cheesy Goodness: The melted mozzarella cheese on top adds a wonderful layer of flavor and texture.
• Great for Leftovers: These stuffed shells reheat beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make preparing your stuffed shells with meat even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Baking Dish (13-inch)
• Mixing Bowl
• Cooking Pot (for pasta)
• Spoon or Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and browning meat evenly, ensuring great flavor.
• Baking Dish: A good-quality baking dish helps in even cooking, allowing your stuffed shells to bake perfectly every time.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious stuffed shells with meat:

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
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt

For Assembly

• 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 the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you assemble your dish.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions. Drain them well and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Sauté the diced bell peppers until they are soft.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for a few minutes, then set aside.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large bowl:
1. Combine ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Fill each cooked jumbo shell generously with the ricotta mixture to ensure they are well-packed.

Step 6: Assemble

In a 13-inch baking dish:
1. Spread a few spoonfuls of meat sauce on the bottom.
2. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over this sauce.
3. Pour any remaining sauce over the top of the shells.

Step 7: Bake

Cover and bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes at 350°F.
Then:
1. Remove from oven and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
2. Increase oven temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is fully melted.
3. For best results, broil for a few minutes at the end for a golden-brown bubbly top.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish your cheesy stuffed shells with fresh parsley and serve warm for a delightful meal! Enjoy this comforting dish that everyone will love!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells with meat are a hearty and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a meal for yourself, these serving suggestions will help elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Salad

• Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with creamy dressing and croutons adds a crunchy contrast to the dish.

Add Garlic Bread

• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery sticks infused with garlic flavor are perfect for scooping up sauce.
• Toasted Garlic Bread: Crispy slices of bread slathered in garlic butter make an excellent side for soaking up marinara.

Serve with Vegetables

• Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil and roast until tender for a nutritious side.
• Sautéed Zucchini: Lightly sauté zucchini slices with garlic for a flavorful vegetable addition.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds bright flavor and aroma to each serving.
• Parsley Garnish: Fresh parsley not only looks beautiful but also enhances the overall taste.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

Perfecting your stuffed shells is about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your meat mixture well; it enhances the overall flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the jumbo shells so they hold their shape and texture after baking.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality ricotta and mozzarella for a creamier filling and melty topping.
• Layer Sauce Generously: Use enough marinara sauce both in the dish and on top to keep everything moist during baking.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like mushrooms or different cheeses to customize your filling.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allow the stuffed shells to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps set the layers and makes them easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Complement your stuffed shells with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting pairing.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a refreshing contrast.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender add an elegant touch.
4. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing texture that balances the richness of the pasta dish.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that complement the stuffed shells beautifully.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn served buttered is a classic side that pairs perfectly with Italian dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed shells can be a delightful meal, but a few common missteps can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold choice of filling: Using too much or too little filling can affect the texture. Aim for a well-balanced filling that fits snugly in each shell.
• Bold sauce selection: Skipping the sauce or using a bland one can leave your dish dry. Always choose a flavorful marinara sauce that complements the meat and cheese.
• Bold pasta cooking: Overcooking the shells makes them difficult to stuff and handle. Cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Bold cheese distribution: Not using enough cheese on top can result in a less flavorful dish. Generously sprinkle mozzarella before baking for that perfect melty topping.
• Bold baking time: Underbaking or overbaking leads to either cold centers or burned shells. Follow the timing closely, checking for bubbly cheese as an indicator of doneness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store stuffed shells in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Allow stuffed shells to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Cover and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent sticking. Cook until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making stuffed shells with meat:

How do I make stuffed shells with meat?

You start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells, preparing a filling with ricotta and cooked meat, then stuffing the shells and baking them in marinara sauce.

Can I use different types of meat for stuffed shells?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with turkey, lamb, or even chicken depending on your preference for flavor.

What is the best sauce for stuffed shells with meat?

A rich marinara sauce works wonderfully as it adds moisture and flavor. Make sure it’s well-seasoned!

How do I prevent my stuffed shells from breaking?

Cook your pasta shells al dente so they hold their shape when you stuff them. Handle them gently while cooking and assembling.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Shells with Meat are not just delicious; they’re also versatile! You can customize them with different meats or vegetables based on what you have at home. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep days. Give it a try, and enjoy this cheesy comfort food!