Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and savory flavors, making them ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. With a hearty filling of ground beef and a rich marinara sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Hearty: Packed with flavorful meat and creamy cheese, these stuffed shells are a filling and satisfying meal.
• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies dinner prep with straightforward steps, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Great for Meal Prep: Prepare a large batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or spices for a unique twist on this classic comfort food.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy pasta packed with tasty meat.

Tools and Preparation

To create your stuffed shells masterpiece, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and browning meat evenly, ensuring great flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ricotta mixture smoothly without mess or fuss.

Ingredients

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

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 your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cook Pasta

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Sauté the diced bell peppers until they become soft. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the marinara sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes before removing from heat.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well until everything is incorporated smoothly.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with the ricotta mixture. Ensure each shell is well-packed to avoid any empty spaces.

Step 6: Assemble

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

Step 7: Bake

Cover with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. Afterward, remove from oven, sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top, then increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm to enjoy this delicious meal!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Serving stuffed shells with meat is all about enhancing their rich flavors and textures. This hearty dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it perfect for any occasion.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the marinara sauce.

Salad Options

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing balances the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Caprese Salad: Sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.

Bread Pairings

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful way to soak up extra sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft and flavorful focaccia bread adds an Italian twist to your meal.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

To ensure your stuffed shells with meat turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs, good quality cheese, and homemade marinara can elevate your dish.
• Properly Cook Pasta: Cook the jumbo shells al dente. They should be firm enough to hold the filling without falling apart.
• Don’t Overfill: Fill each shell generously but avoid overstuffing them. This prevents spillage during baking.
• Layer Sauce Generously: Spread enough marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish to keep the shells moist while they bake.
• Cover While Baking: Cover your baking dish with foil during the first half of baking to keep moisture in, then uncover for browning.
• Broil for Finish: For a bubbly, golden top, broil the stuffed shells for a few minutes at the end of baking. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Pairing side dishes with stuffed shells can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm slices spread with garlic butter are perfect for mopping up marinara sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds a nice crispness that cuts through the richness of the shells.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy green option that complements this hearty dish nicely.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the cheesy stuffed shells.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds flavor and nutrition while balancing out the meal.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables brings robust flavors that pair well with Italian cuisine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed shells can be a delightful dish, but there are some common mistakes that may affect your creation. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the shells too long, they can become mushy and break apart. Follow the package instructions carefully and aim for al dente.
• Not seasoning properly: A bland filling will result in a lackluster dish. Be sure to season both the meat sauce and the ricotta mixture adequately for flavor.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the stuffed shells to rest for a few minutes after baking helps everything set and melds the flavors. Don’t serve immediately!
• Using too much filling: Overstuffing the shells can cause them to burst during baking. Fill each shell generously but not excessively.
• Ignoring browning techniques: Broiling at the end gives your stuffed shells a delicious golden top. Don’t skip this step for that perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed shells with meat in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• To freeze, place assembled but unbaked stuffed shells in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of marinara sauce; cover and heat on low until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of meat for Stuffed Shells with Meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb instead of beef or sausage based on your preference.

How do I prevent my stuffed shells from breaking?

Make sure not to overcook the pasta during boiling and gently handle them when stuffing.

Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time, refrigerate or freeze, then bake when ready to serve.

What can I serve with Stuffed Shells with Meat?

A fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this dish nicely.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Shells with Meat is an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the filling or sauce according to your taste preferences. Whether you stick to traditional flavors or add your own twist, these stuffed shells are sure to satisfy!