Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef and carefully selected spices, all enveloped in tender pasta shells and topped with melted cheese. The cheesy filling and savory marinara sauce create a hearty meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether it’s a weekend gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, these stuffed shells will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef, ricotta, and spinach creates a deliciously creamy and savory stuffing.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for cooks of all skill levels to follow.
• Make Ahead Option: Perfect for meal prep; you can assemble the shells ahead of time and bake them when ready to serve.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it great for family gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your filling by adding different vegetables or cheeses based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your stuffed shells:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish (13-inch)
• Mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and browning meat evenly.
• Baking dish: Provides ample space for layering the stuffed shells without crowding them.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before stuffing the shells.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Stuffed Shells with Meat, gather the following 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) so it’s ready when you need it.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions. Drain them well and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Sauté the diced bell peppers until they soften.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Simmer for a few minutes before removing from heat.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with the ricotta mixture. Ensure they are packed tightly but not overstuffed.

Step 6: Assemble

In a 13-inch baking dish:
1. Spread some of the meat sauce on the bottom.
2. Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce.
3. Pour remaining meat sauce over the top of the shells.

Step 7: Bake

Cover your baking dish with foil:
1. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove foil and sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
3. Increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted. Broil for a few minutes if you prefer a golden crust.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm to enjoy this comforting dish!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells with meat are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple presentation or a more elegant serving style, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Classic Presentation

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for added color and freshness.
• Serve with Extra Sauce: Offer additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Family Style

• Place in a Large Serving Dish: Transfer all stuffed shells into one large dish for a communal dining experience.
• Provide Serving Utensils: Include large spoons or tongs for easy serving.

Individual Portions

• Use Ramekins: Serve stuffed shells in individual ramekins for a personalized touch.
• Pair with Salad: Add a small side salad to each ramekin for a complete meal.

Festive Touch

• Add Cheese Before Serving: Just before serving, sprinkle extra mozzarella and broil briefly to create an enticing bubbly top.
• Use Colorful Plates: Serve on vibrant plates to make the dish visually appealing.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

To achieve the best stuffed shells with meat, focus on these tips that ensure flavor and texture are spot on.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano in your meat sauce for enhanced taste.
• Properly Cook Pasta: Make sure not to overcook the jumbo shells; they should be al dente as they will cook more while baking.
• Pack Filling Tightly: Ensure each shell is filled generously with the ricotta mixture for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Layer Sauces Well: Spread meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish before placing stuffed shells; this prevents sticking and adds moisture.
• Control Cheese Melting: Broil the cheese at the end carefully to avoid burning while achieving that perfect golden finish.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Complement your stuffed shells with meat by choosing from these delicious side dishes. Each of these pairs wonderfully and enhances the overall meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic pairing provides a crunchy, buttery contrast to the soft pasta.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons add freshness and crunch to your meal.
3. Steamed Broccoli: A light vegetable option that balances out the richness of the stuffed shells.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer both flavor and nutrition alongside your dish.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side choice.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad topped with vinaigrette provides a light and zesty complement to the cheesy stuffed shells.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making stuffed shells with meat, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not cooking the shells properly: Undercooked shells can be hard to fill and chew. Always follow package instructions for al dente cooking.
• Skipping seasoning: Flavorless filling can ruin your dish. Don’t forget to season both the meat and cheese mixtures well.
• Overfilling the shells: Stuffing too much filling can cause them to burst while baking. Aim for a generous but manageable amount in each shell.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheaper cheeses may not melt well or provide the desired flavor. Opt for fresh mozzarella and quality ricotta for best results.
• Neglecting the sauce: A dry dish is less appealing. Ensure there’s enough marinara sauce underneath and on top of the stuffed shells for moisture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of marinara sauce in a pan over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about stuffed shells with meat that may help you refine your cooking process:

How do I make stuffed shells with meat vegetarian?

You can replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms, adding spices and herbs for flavor.

Can I prepare stuffed shells with meat in advance?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.

What should I serve with stuffed shells with meat?

A simple salad or garlic bread pairs well, balancing the rich flavors of the dish.

Can I use different types of meat in stuffed shells with meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or lamb can be excellent alternatives if you’re looking for variety.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed shells with meat are a delightful comfort food option that’s both satisfying and versatile. Feel free to customize the filling by adding vegetables or changing up the types of cheese used. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, ensuring you’ll have a delicious meal ready whenever you need it!