Indulgent Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese Recipe

Comfort arrives with these delectable stuffed shells bursting with savory flavors that promise pure culinary joy.

Pasta lovers will adore this hearty Italian-inspired dish packed with rich ingredients.

Creamy ricotta and seasoned ground beef create a mouthwatering combination inside tender pasta shells.

Melted cheese blankets each shell, delivering an irresistible golden-brown top that beckons you to dig in.

Simple yet impressive, this recipe works perfectly for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Cheesy, meaty, and absolutely delicious, these shells will become your new favorite go-to meal that everyone craves.

You won’t be able to resist this crowd-pleasing classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

FAQs

• Can I use other types of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile while keeping the same cooking method.

• Is this recipe suitable for make-ahead meals?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?

Use less expensive cheeses like store-brand ricotta and mozzarella, and buy ground meat when it’s on sale to reduce overall cost.

• What if I'm lactose intolerant?

Consider using lactose-free cheese alternatives or plant-based cheese substitutes that melt well to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese That Delight

• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with hearty ground beef, creamy cheeses, and classic marinara, this dish delivers rich, satisfying flavors that everyone in the family will love.
• Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe allows swapping ground beef for turkey, adding extra veggies, or adjusting seasonings to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the stuffed shells in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for stress-free dinner solutions.
• One-Dish Wonder: Combines protein, pasta, and cheese in a single baking dish, minimizing kitchen cleanup and providing a complete meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

• Jumbo Shells: Large pasta shells perfect for holding rich meat and cheese filling.

• Ground Beef: Provides hearty flavor and protein for the stuffed shells.
• Egg: Binds the cheese and meat mixture together.

• Ricotta Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Create a creamy and flavorful filling that adds richness to the dish.

• Onions, Garlic: Add depth and savory notes to the meat mixture.
• Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

• Marinara Sauce: Provides moisture and classic Italian tomato flavor to the stuffed shells.
• Fresh Basil, Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish that adds a fresh herb finish to the dish.

How to Make Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C) to prepare for your culinary adventure.

Step 2: Prepare Pasta Shells

Boil the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions.

Once cooked, gently drain and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Create Flavorful Meat Base

• Ground beef
• Diced onions
• Minced garlic

Sauté over medium heat, sprinkling in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Drain any excess fat to keep the mixture light and tasty.

Step 4: Blend Creamy Cheese Mixture

• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Beaten egg
• Half of the cooked ground beef

Stir until ingredients are perfectly blended.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Dish

Spread a thin, even layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of your baking dish.

Step 6: Stuff The Shells

Carefully fill each pasta shell with the meaty cheese mixture, nestling them closely in the sauced baking dish.

Step 7: Add Final Sauce Layer

Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle an extra generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake To Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the top turns golden and bubbly.

Step 9: Garnish And Serve

Finish by scattering fresh basil or parsley over the top, adding a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

• Pat shells dry with paper towels to prevent soggy texture and ensure even filling.
• Reserve half the ground beef for a richer, more balanced filling that doesn't overwhelm the cheese.
• Spread a thin marinara layer first to prevent shells from sticking and add extra flavor to the bottom.
• Use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan for better melting and more authentic taste compared to pre-shredded varieties.
• Watch shells closely during uncovered baking to achieve golden, crispy edges without burning.

Variations for Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

• Vegetarian Shell Sensation: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or chopped mushrooms for a hearty meat-free version that maintains rich flavor and texture.
• Low-Carb Shell Swap: Use zucchini boats or bell pepper halves instead of pasta shells, reducing carbohydrates while keeping the delicious cheese and meat filling intact.
• Gluten-Free Comfort: Substitute regular pasta shells with gluten-free jumbo shells, ensuring those with wheat sensitivities can enjoy this classic comfort dish.
• Mediterranean Inspired Shells: Add crumbled feta cheese, spinach, and oregano to the filling for a Greek-inspired variation that brings new Mediterranean flavors to the traditional recipe.

Serving Ideas for Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

• Dinner Party Delight: Impress guests by serving these stuffed shells as a main course with a vibrant side salad and crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
• Hearty Family Feast: Pair the shells with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a complete and nutritious meal that everyone will love.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Complement the rich, savory flavors with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese, which perfectly balances the meaty and cheesy shells.
• Leftover Lunch Transformation: Reheat individual shells the next day and serve over a bed of mixed greens for a quick and satisfying lunch that tastes just as delicious as the night before.

How to Store Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Place shells on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring gently between each to ensure even warming. Stop when heated through.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place shells in a baking dish, add a splash of marinara sauce to prevent drying. Cover with foil and warm for 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese Recipe

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4.8 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Classic stuffed shells with meat and cheese bring Italian comfort to dinner tables. Rich ricotta, seasoned ground beef, and melted mozzarella create a satisfying meal you’ll savor with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef

Cheese:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta and Sauce:

• 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 0.5 cup diced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed shells.
2. Boil the jumbo pasta shells in salted water until they reach al dente texture, then carefully drain and allow to cool slightly.
3. Sauté ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, combining with finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Incorporate Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then drain any accumulated fat.
4. Create a creamy filling by blending ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, and half of the prepared ground beef mixture.
5. Coat the bottom of a baking dish with a thin layer of marinara sauce to prevent sticking and add initial flavor.
6. Generously fill each pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture, arranging them carefully in the prepared baking dish.
7. Drench the stuffed shells with remaining marinara sauce, ensuring complete coverage, and sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese becomes golden and bubbly.
9. Finish the dish by garnishing with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a vibrant presentation and added aromatic flavor.

Notes

• Al dente pasta ensures perfect texture, preventing shells from becoming mushy during baking.
• Drain ground beef thoroughly to avoid watery filling and maintain robust meat flavor.
• Use room temperature ricotta for smoother, creamier cheese mixture that blends effortlessly.
• Experiment with ground turkey or plant-based meat for lighter, healthier protein alternatives.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 413 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 490 mg
• Fat: 21 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 94 mg