Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese Recipe

Stuffed shells with meat and cheese is a classic Italian-American dish that brings together tender pasta shells, savory meat, and rich cheese for a meal that’s sure to please. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting weeknight meal, stuffed shells are a fantastic choice. This recipe provides you with everything you need to know, from ingredients to cooking techniques, ensuring that your stuffed shells turn out perfectly every time. Read on for detailed instructions, tips, and answers to common questions about making this delicious dish!

What are Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese?

Stuffed shells with meat and cheese consist of large pasta shells (called “conchiglioni”) that are cooked until al dente and then stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, cheeses, and seasonings. The stuffed shells are then arranged in a baking dish, covered with marinara sauce, and baked until bubbly and golden. The combination of pasta, flavorful meat, and gooey cheese makes for an irresistible dish that everyone will love.

Ready to try making stuffed shells with meat and cheese? Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients List for Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this hearty stuffed shells recipe:

• 20-25 jumbo pasta shells (conchiglioni)
• 1 lb ground beef (or a combination of ground beef and ground pork for extra flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

Stuffed shells are a versatile dish, and you can easily make adjustments to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations:

1. Cheese Variations:
   • You can replace ricotta with cottage cheese if you prefer a lighter filling.
   • For a creamier texture, consider adding mascarpone or cream cheese to the mixture.
   • Feel free to increase the amount of mozzarella for an extra-cheesy dish, or add sharp provolone for a bolder flavor.
2. Meat Options:
   • While ground beef is classic, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or even a combination of meats for added depth.
   • For a vegetarian version, omit the meat altogether and increase the amount of cheese, or substitute the meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or lentils.
3. Sauce:
   • Swap out marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer variation.
   • If you like a bit of spice, consider using arrabbiata sauce or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara.
4. Seasoning:
   • Fresh herbs like basil and oregano can elevate the flavor of your stuffed shells.
   • For a touch of brightness, add a bit of lemon zest to the ricotta filling.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly prepared batch of stuffed shells with meat and cheese:

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells:
   • Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until they are al dente, following the instructions on the package. (They should be slightly firm, as they will continue cooking in the oven.)
   • Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside to cool.
2. Cook the Meat Filling:
   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef (or your chosen meat) to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Season the meat with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the meat is fully cooked, remove the skillet from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan, and one large egg. Mix well until smooth.
   • Add the cooked and slightly cooled ground meat mixture to the cheese mixture, stirring until evenly incorporated.
4. Assemble the Stuffed Shells:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Pour about 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
   • Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it generously with the meat and cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Place the filled shells in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
   • Once all the shells are stuffed, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
5. Bake the Stuffed Shells:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
   • After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
   • Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes like stuffed shells can go awry if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overcooking the pasta shells: Be sure to cook the pasta until just al dente. Overcooked shells will become too soft and may fall apart when you stuff them.
2. Not seasoning the filling enough: Ensure that you season both the meat and the cheese mixture with enough salt, pepper, and herbs to bring out the flavors of the dish.
3. Using too much sauce: While you want enough marinara sauce to coat the shells, don’t drown them. Too much sauce can make the dish watery.
4. Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Stuffed shells with meat and cheese are a show-stopping dish, especially when presented beautifully. Here are a few presentation tips to elevate your meal:

1. Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
2. Drizzle with olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil over the top for added richness and flavor.
3. Serve with sides: Pair your stuffed shells with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese

When it comes to serving stuffed shells, here’s how to make them shine:

• Carefully lift each shell from the baking dish with a spatula to keep the filling intact.
• Serve 3-4 shells per plate for a satisfying main course.
• If desired, add extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping or spooning over the top.
• You can also offer additional Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on the table for guests to sprinkle over their shells.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Shells

Want to wow your guests with a beautiful presentation? Here are a few ideas:

1. Individual Baking Dishes: If you’re serving guests, consider baking the shells in individual-sized ramekins or gratin dishes. It adds a personal touch and makes serving easier.
2. Family-Style Serving: For a more casual gathering, place the baking dish on the table and let everyone help themselves.
3. Layer with Sauce: When plating, add a spoonful of marinara sauce on the bottom of the plate before placing the shells on top. It adds visual appeal and extra flavor.

Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great dish for meal prep or entertaining.
• Freezing: Stuffed shells freeze well! Assemble the dish, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative to beef. Just be sure to season it generously, as turkey is milder in flavor.

2. Do I have to use ricotta cheese? Ricotta is traditional, but you can substitute it with cottage cheese for a lighter option or use mascarpone for a creamier filling.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta shells, which can be found at most grocery stores.

4. How can I add vegetables to the dish? You can mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the cheese filling for extra nutrition and flavor.

5. Can I make stuffed shells without meat? Yes, for a vegetarian version, omit the meat and increase the amount of cheese or add a vegetable filling like spinach or mushrooms.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells with meat and cheese is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a delicious combination of hearty meat, creamy cheese, and rich marinara sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it with family, this recipe is easy to make, versatile, and full of flavor. Try it out today and impress your guests with this classic Italian dish!

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