Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese Recipe

Looking for a comforting, hearty, and mouth-watering meal that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further! This Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, combining tender pasta shells with a rich meat and cheese filling, topped with savory marinara sauce and melted cheese. Keep reading to discover how you can make this Italian classic at home and impress your friends and family!

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What Are Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese?

Stuffed shells are a popular Italian-American dish made from large pasta shells (conchiglioni) filled with a savory blend of ground meat, cheeses, and seasonings, then baked in marinara sauce. This dish is similar to lasagna or manicotti but offers a unique twist with its shell shape, allowing each serving to be a perfect bite of creamy, cheesy goodness.

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Ingredients List for Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese

Before diving into the cooking process, let's gather all the ingredients you'll need:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage - Adds rich flavor and texture.
• 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese - Creamy and smooth, it forms the base of the filling.
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese - Melts beautifully for that cheesy pull.
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese - Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
• 1 egg - Helps bind the filling together.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Enhances the savory flavors.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning - A mix of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.
• Salt and pepper, to taste - To enhance all the flavors.

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells - The star of the dish, designed for stuffing.
• 2 cups (500 ml) marinara sauce - To cover the shells and keep them moist.
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese - For sprinkling on top.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Adds a touch of color and freshness.

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Substitutions and Variations

Want to make this dish your own? Here are a few ideas:

• Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of meats. You can also use crumbled Italian sausage for extra flavor.
• Cheese Choices: For a creamier filling, add mascarpone cheese. If you prefer a sharper taste, try using pecorino romano instead of Parmesan.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling for a tasty vegetarian option.
• Sauce Options: Use a creamy Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a richer version, or try a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a little kick.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing this dish might seem complex, but it’s actually quite simple if you follow these easy steps. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo shells and cook according to package instructions, typically around 10-12 minutes, until they are al dente.
3. Drain the shells and lay them out on a baking sheet to cool, making sure they don't stick together.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
3. Fill each cooked shell with about 1-2 tablespoons of the meat and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, seam-side up.

Step 4: Top and Bake

1. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
2. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

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How to Cook Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking stuffed shells is all about layering flavors and textures. From the savory meat and creamy cheese filling to the tangy marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese, this dish brings together everything you love about Italian cuisine. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Shells: Make sure the pasta is al dente. Overcooked shells can break easily when you try to fill them.
• Not Draining the Meat Properly: Excess fat can make the filling greasy. Always drain the cooked meat thoroughly.
• Skipping the Egg: The egg helps bind the filling, making it easier to stuff the shells without it falling apart.
• Under-seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning of the filling. The right balance of salt and spices is key to a flavorful dish.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving, presentation is just as important as taste. Here’s how you can make your stuffed shells look as appetizing as they taste:

How to Serve Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese

• Individual Servings: Plate 3-4 stuffed shells per person, spooning a bit of extra sauce on top and garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
• Family-Style: Place the baking dish on the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This makes for a cozy, communal meal that’s perfect for gatherings.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese

• Cheese Pull: Serve the shells hot from the oven to highlight the gooey, melty cheese.
• Color Contrast: Garnish with bright green parsley or a sprinkle of red chili flakes to add color contrast to the dish.
• Fancy Plating: Arrange the shells in a circular pattern on a large platter for a beautiful, restaurant-like presentation.

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Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezing: Stuffed shells freeze beautifully. Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
• Extra Sauce: Keep some extra marinara sauce on hand for those who like a saucier dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought marinara works great for this recipe. You can also use homemade sauce if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, stuffed shells can be made a day in advance and kept in the fridge. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Definitely! Simply omit the meat and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even ricotta and spinach mix for a delicious vegetarian version.

Q: How do I reheat stuffed shells?
A: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

Q: What side dishes go well with stuffed shells?
A: Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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Conclusion

Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese are a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit with its savory meat filling, creamy cheese, and delicious marinara sauce. Follow this recipe, experiment with variations, and enjoy the perfect bite of Italian goodness every time. Try it out today and bring the flavors of Italy to your kitchen!

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