Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. This recipe combines the heartiness of ground beef with cheesy goodness, all enveloped in pasta and marinara sauce. The flavor is simply irresistible, making it ideal for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Satisfying: These stuffed shells are packed with meat and cheese, providing a warm and comforting meal that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this dish without any hassle.
• Versatile: Great for various occasions—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck, these shells will impress!
• Freezable: Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy meal on busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty dish, making it a winner for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with your cooking adventure, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the meat and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Baking dish: Ensures that your stuffed shells cook uniformly while holding all those delicious layers.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in combining ingredients efficiently before stuffing the shells.

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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 Cheese 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). This ensures that your stuffed shells cook evenly when they go in.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

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

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat:
– Heat the olive oil.
– Sauté the diced red and green bell peppers until soft.
– Add the ground beef, cooking until browned.
– Stir in the marinara sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
– Let it simmer for a few minutes before setting aside.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl:
– Combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.
– Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with the ricotta mixture. Ensure they are packed well to hold their shape during baking.

Step 6: Assemble

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

Step 7: Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then:
– Remove from oven and sprinkle 2 cups of mozzarella cheese on top.
– Increase temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes or until bubbly. For extra flavor, broil for a few minutes at the end to achieve a golden crust.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish your delicious stuffed shells with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells with meat are a delicious and hearty meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese dressed in creamy Caesar dressing complements the rich flavors.

With Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter make for a perfect pairing.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: For an extra indulgence, top your garlic bread with mozzarella before toasting.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Veggies: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots provide a colorful and nutritious side.
• Herb-Seasoned Broccoli: Simply roast broccoli florets with olive oil and herbs for a simple yet tasty addition.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

To make your stuffed shells with meat even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your meat sauce generously; it enhances the overall flavor.
• Creamy Filling: For a creamier texture, mix in some cream cheese or sour cream with the ricotta.
• Proper Cooking Time: Ensure you bake long enough for the cheese to melt thoroughly without overcooking the pasta.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheeses can significantly improve taste compared to dried or pre-packaged options.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

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

1. Garlic Knots: Soft dough twisted into knots and baked with garlic butter; perfect for dipping into marinara!
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar adds a refreshing touch.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a simple yet elegant side.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus seasoned with lemon juice offers a bright contrast to the cheesy pasta.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses provides variety and flavor balance.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity that pairs well with rich stuffed shells.
7. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side dish that complements the meal well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stuffed shells with meat can be a delightful experience, but certain missteps can affect the final dish.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using the wrong type of meat can alter the flavor. Stick to lean ground beef or chicken for the best results.
• Bold overcooking pasta: If you cook the jumbo shells too long, they may break apart. Follow package instructions closely and undercook them slightly for easier stuffing.
• Bold skimping on seasoning: Not seasoning your filling or sauce well enough can result in bland shells. Be generous with spices and taste as you go.
• Bold overcrowding the baking dish: Packing too many shells into one dish may lead to uneven cooking. Arrange them in a single layer for even heating and browning.
• Bold skipping the broil step: Not broiling at the end could mean missing out on that golden, bubbly cheese topping. Give it a few minutes under the broiler for a perfect finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered until heated through, about 25 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Place shells in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat gently on low in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to add moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making stuffed shells with meat, here are some common questions.

Can I use different meats for Stuffed Shells with Meat?

Yes! Ground turkey or lamb can be great alternatives if you want to switch it up while keeping the same deliciousness.

What can I substitute if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese blended until smooth works wonderfully as a substitute for ricotta in stuffed shells.

How do I make my Stuffed Shells with Meat spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to your meat mixture for an extra kick!

Can I prepare Stuffed Shells with Meat ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them a day before and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed shells with meat are not just comfort food; they are versatile and customizable. You can mix in different vegetables or cheeses based on your preferences. This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Try it out and let your creativity shine!