Description
Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Meat and Cheese
Ingredients:
12-14 large pasta shells
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
1 egg
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley
(for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta Shells: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions, drain, and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. In a bowl, mix the cooked meat with ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the Shells: Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
Add the Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
These cheesy, meaty stuffed pasta shells are a perfect comfort meal for the whole family!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect stuffed shells every time. First, ensure your pasta shells are only cooked to al dente; they will soften further during baking. After draining, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. For the filling, let the cooked meat cool for 5 minutes before combining it with the cheeses and egg to avoid scrambling the egg. Use a small spoon or a piping bag to neatly fill each shell, pressing the mixture gently to pack it in. When arranging in the dish, nestle them closely to prevent tipping. Finally, when baking, the initial covered time steams the shells, while the final uncovered time creates the perfect golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed shells are a hearty main dish. Serve them alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a simple roasted vegetable, like broccoli or asparagus, makes an excellent accompaniment. For a lighter option, pair with a side of sautéed spinach. Leftovers reheat wonderfully in the oven or microwave for a quick lunch.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook shells al dente. Brown meat and drain. Mix meat with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings. Stuff mixture into shells. Place in dish, cover with marinara and remaining cheese. Bake covered for 25 mins at 375°F, then uncovered for 10 mins until bubbly. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare stuffed shells ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Cottage cheese can replace ricotta for a lighter texture. For the shredded cheese, Italian blends or provolone work well.
How can I make this vegetarian? Omit the ground meat. Use finely chopped sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a plant-based meat substitute mixed into the cheese filling.
How do I freeze stuffed pasta shells? Assemble the dish but do not bake. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Why is my filling dry? This often happens if the meat is lean and overcooked, or if the shells are overbaked. Ensure you don’t drain all the fat from the meat, and avoid overbaking by checking at the minimum time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta shells initially, as they will become mushy. Do not mix the hot meat directly into the cheese with the egg, as it will cook the egg. Ensure the baking dish is appropriately sized; a dish too large will cause the sauce to burn, while one too small will crowd the shells. Do not skip letting the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking; this allows the filling to set for cleaner serving.
Conclusion
Stuffed pasta shells are a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that combines simple ingredients into a deeply satisfying meal. With this comprehensive guide, you can master the technique, avoid common pitfalls, and adapt the recipe to your taste. Perfect for make-ahead dinners and special occasions alike, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home cooking repertoire. Enjoy the delicious, comforting results of your effort.