Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that will impress both family and guests, look no further than Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese. This Italian-inspired recipe combines tender pasta shells filled with a savory meat and cheese mixture, all baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce. With melty cheese, flavorful meat, and perfectly cooked pasta, these stuffed shells are ideal for a special dinner or a make-ahead meal. Follow along for the full recipe, tips, and variations!

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What Are Stuffed Shells?

Stuffed shells, also known as Conchiglioni Ripieni, are large pasta shells that are typically filled with a mixture of cheeses, meat, vegetables, or a combination of all three, then baked in marinara sauce. The dish is similar to lasagna in terms of flavors and ingredients but uses pasta shells instead of layered pasta sheets. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different fillings and is perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for later.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

For this recipe, you’ll need a few basic ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meat and Cheese Filling:

1. Ground Beef (or Italian Sausage) – 1 lb of lean ground beef or Italian sausage (or a combination of both).
2. Ricotta Cheese – 2 cups of ricotta cheese, for a creamy and cheesy filling.
3. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – 2 cups, divided (1 cup for the filling and 1 cup for topping).
4. Grated Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup for added richness and flavor.
5. Egg – 1 large egg, to help bind the filling together.
6. Garlic – 2 cloves, minced, for a punch of flavor.
7. Fresh Parsley – 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried) for a bright, herby flavor.
8. Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.

For the Pasta and Sauce:

1. Jumbo Pasta Shells – 1 box (12 oz) of jumbo pasta shells (you’ll need about 20-25 shells, depending on the box size).
2. Marinara Sauce – 3 cups of your favorite marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade).
3. Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon for cooking the meat.
4. Water – For boiling the pasta.

Substitutions and Variations

This stuffed shells recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are some substitution and variation ideas:

• Ground Meat Options: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Cheese Variations: Swap ricotta with cottage cheese or add some creamy mascarpone for a richer filling.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for a veggie-packed filling.
• Sauce Variations: Instead of marinara sauce, you can use a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or use spicy Italian sausage to give the dish some heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese:

1. Cook the Pasta Shells:

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions, since they will finish cooking in the oven). Stir occasionally to prevent the shells from sticking.
2. Drain and Cool: Drain the pasta and lay the shells out on a baking sheet or parchment paper to cool slightly. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent them from sticking together.

2. Prepare the Meat and Cheese Filling:

1. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the cooked meat mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until fully combined.

3. Assemble the Stuffed Shells:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread Sauce: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to create a base for the stuffed shells.
3. Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon (or your hands), fill each pasta shell with a generous amount of the meat and cheese mixture. Place the filled shells, open side up, in the prepared baking dish.
4. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is covered. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the top.

4. Bake the Stuffed Shells:

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
2. Uncover and Broil: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. You can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy cheese topping.
3. Let Rest: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the shells to set and makes it easier to scoop and serve.

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

Here’s a quick summary of the steps for easy reference:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the shells until al dente and let them cool.
2. Prepare the Filling: Cook the meat, then mix it with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings.
3. Assemble the Dish: Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish, stuff the shells, and arrange them in the dish. Top with more sauce and cheese.
4. Bake: Cover and bake, then uncover and broil until golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Be careful not to overcook the pasta shells during the boiling stage, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Cook them just until al dente to avoid mushy shells.
• Too Much Filling in Each Shell: Don’t overfill the shells, as they may burst while baking. Use a tablespoon or so of filling for each shell.
• Dry Shells: Make sure to cover the shells with plenty of sauce to keep them moist during baking. If you like extra saucy pasta, consider adding an additional cup of marinara.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here are some ways to serve and present your stuffed shells with style:

• Serve Family-Style: Place the baking dish in the center of the table and let everyone scoop out their own shells.
• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, serve 3-4 stuffed shells per plate, spooning extra sauce on top and garnishing with fresh basil or parsley.
• With Sides: Serve with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Serve Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese

Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese make a satisfying main dish, but here are some ideas for complementary sides and accompaniments:

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread or breadsticks pair beautifully with saucy, cheesy pasta dishes.
• Salad: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the shells with roasted zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers for a healthy side.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese

• Colorful Garnishes: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, basil, or grated Parmesan over the top of the dish for a vibrant, finishing touch.
• Family-Style Serving: Present the stuffed shells in a large baking dish or a rustic cast iron skillet for a warm, inviting look.

Stuffed Shells With Meat and Cheese Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake when ready, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Freezing: Stuffed shells freeze well! After assembling (but before baking), cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
• Customize It: Feel free to add extra veggies, like sautéed spinach or mushrooms, to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While ricotta and mozzarella are traditional, you can substitute or add other cheeses like cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even fontina for a different flavor.

Q: Can I freeze stuffed shells?
A: Yes! Stuffed shells freeze beautifully. Assemble the dish, but don't bake it. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the baking instructions.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes). You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will yield better results for keeping the shells intact.

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta shells?
A: Yes, gluten-free pasta shells work just as well. Simply cook them according to the package instructions, but make sure to monitor the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can become mushy if overcooked.

Conclusion

Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese are the ultimate comfort food. They’re flavorful, cheesy, and perfect for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests at a special gathering. Whether you're looking for a make-ahead meal or something to freeze for later, this dish has you covered. Customize the filling, try different cheeses, or make a vegetarian version—no matter how you prepare it, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the cheesy, saucy goodness of homemade stuffed shells!

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