Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe showcases how easy it is to create a satisfying meal packed with cheesy goodness and hearty meat. The combination of ground beef and a rich marinara sauce makes this dish a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of ground beef, ricotta, and marinara creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this recipe with ease.
• Versatile Meal: Great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings; these stuffed shells are sure to please everyone.
• Cheesy Goodness: Topped with melted mozzarella, the creamy texture adds to the overall satisfaction of the dish.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These stuffed shells can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with making your delicious stuffed shells, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 13-inch baking dish
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables evenly.
• Baking dish: Holds all the stuffed shells together while they bake, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine ingredients easily without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Sauce and Meat Filling

• 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
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt

For Assembling

• 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 that it’s hot and ready for baking when you’re done preparing your stuffed shells.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully 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 become soft.
3. Add in the ground beef and cook until browned.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Let it 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 everything is thoroughly combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Take each cooked jumbo shell:
– Fill it generously with the ricotta mixture ensuring they are well-packed.

Step 6: Assemble

In a greased 13-inch baking dish:
– Spread some meat sauce on the bottom.
– Place the stuffed shells in a single layer over this sauce.
– Pour any remaining meat sauce over the top.

Step 7: Bake

Cover your baking dish with foil:
– Bake for 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
– After that time, remove from oven and add mozzarella cheese on top. Increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly. For a golden finish, broil for a few minutes at the end.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm to enjoy your deliciously cheesy stuffed shells!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells with meat are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Elevating the dining experience can make this dish even more enjoyable for family or guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of stuffed shells.

Garlic Bread on the Side

• Serve warm garlic bread to complement the cheesy goodness of the stuffed shells. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and fresh flavor that enhances the dish’s presentation.

Accompanied by Grilled Vegetables

• Pairing stuffed shells with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds a healthy touch and extra flavor to your meal.

With a Creamy Soup

• Consider serving alongside a light creamy soup, such as tomato bisque or butternut squash soup, for a comforting combination.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality meats. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and overall dish quality.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook jumbo shells just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can break when stuffing and will not hold the filling well.
• Mix Filling Thoroughly: Make sure to blend your ricotta cheese mixture evenly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor from all ingredients.
• Layer Sauce Generously: Apply marinara sauce generously at both the bottom and top of the dish before baking. This keeps the shells moist and flavorful.
• Broil for a Golden Top: For an appealing finish, broil stuffed shells briefly at the end of baking to achieve a golden-brown cheese topping.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Enhance your meal by pairing stuffed shells with complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and tanginess, balancing the richness of the stuffed shells beautifully.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a nutritious green contrast that complements the hearty pasta dish.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them an ideal side for this savory meal.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side that pairs well with Italian cuisine.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer comfort while providing a satisfying starchy element alongside the stuffed shells.
6. Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter featuring olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables offers variety and enhances the Italian theme of your meal.
7. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic gives you an easy yet nutritious option that complements your main dish effectively.
8. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative, serve spiralized zucchini noodles lightly tossed in olive oil for added texture and freshness without excess carbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking stuffed shells can be simple, but a few common mistakes can spoil the dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Boldly overstuffing: Filling the shells too much can cause them to burst during baking. Aim for a generous yet controlled amount of filling in each shell.
• Ignoring sauce: Not using enough sauce can lead to dry shells. Ensure you have plenty of marinara both underneath and on top of the stuffed shells.
• Skipping pre-cooking the pasta: Cooking the jumbo shells beforehand is crucial. Undercooked pasta will not soften properly during baking.
• Not seasoning adequately: Flavorless filling is a common mistake. Don’t forget to season your ricotta mixture well with salt and spices for maximum taste.
• Rushing baking time: Give your dish time to meld flavors by following the baking instructions carefully. A rushed bake may result in uneven cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning them out for easy meal prep.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent sticking; cover and cook until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Stuffed Shells with Meat:

Can I use different meats in Stuffed Shells with Meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb for variety without losing flavor.

How do I know when my stuffed shells are done baking?

The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges of the dish should start to turn golden brown.

Can I prepare Stuffed Shells with Meat ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

What else can I add to my stuffed shells?

Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms into your filling mixture for extra nutrition.

How do I prevent my stuffed shells from sticking together?

Use enough sauce between layers and store them properly in an airtight container once cooled.

Final Thoughts

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them according to your preferences by experimenting with different meats or adding vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is sure to satisfy!