As a busy parent, I’m always looking for tasty and easy dinners. Therefore, I’m excited to share my favorite Stuffed Shells with Meat recipe. It’s a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. Moreover, this hearty pasta dish has jumbo shells filled with seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta cheese, and Italian herbs. In addition, it’s all baked in a rich marinara sauce. It’s not only delicious but also easy to make, ready in under an hour.
A close-up of a plate of baked stuffed pasta shells filled with seasoned ground meat, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce, garnished with fresh basil leaves, warm and inviting kitchen setting, soft natural lighting highlighting the textures of the dish.
What’s more, this Stuffed Shells recipe is great for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a cozy dinner. It has a perfect mix of cheesy, meaty goodness and homemade tomato sauce. As a result, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Key Takeaways
- Delicious stuffed shells recipe featuring seasoned ground beef and ricotta cheese
- Easy to prepare in under an hour, making it a great weeknight dinner option
- Comforting Italian-inspired dish that the whole family will enjoy
- Perfect for making ahead of time or enjoying as leftovers
- Budget-friendly and versatile, with options to customize the filling or sauce
Why This Stuffed Shells Recipe with Meat Will Become Your Family Favorite
Enjoy the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with this amazing meat stuffed shells recipe. Not only does it mix the classic taste of Italian stuffed shells with a savory filling, but it also creates a dish that is sure to make your taste buds happy and fill your cravings.
Traditional Italian Comfort Food Made Simple
Making authentic Italian food at home is easy with this cheesy stuffed shells recipe. By combining ground meat, creamy ricotta, and fragrant herbs and spices, it creates a dish that’s both satisfying and full of comforting flavors. Furthermore, it’s perfect for impressing family or guests without too much effort.
Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals
Even on busy weeknights, you can have a delicious homemade meal. In fact, this meat stuffed shells recipe is ideal for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it ahead of time and then bake it when you’re ready to eat. As a result, it’s a hassle-free dinner that’s also homemade.
Budget-Friendly Dinner Option
Feeding your family doesn’t have to cost a lot. Thanks to its simplicity, this Italian stuffed shells recipe is affordable yet full of flavor. It uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients while still serving a crowd. Thus, it’s a cost-effective meal that everyone will enjoy.
A close-up shot of a vibrant ceramic dish filled with large, plump stuffed pasta shells, generously filled with seasoned ground meat and ricotta cheese. The shells are covered in a rich marinara sauce, glistening under warm lighting, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of melted mozzarella cheese on top. A rustic wooden table serves as the backdrop, making the dish feel homemade.
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Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Making delicious ricotta stuffed shells, beef stuffed shells, or baked stuffed shells begins with the right ingredients. To start, let’s look at the key components that make this Italian dish a hit.
First and foremost, you’ll need jumbo pasta shells. These big, hollow shells are perfect for holding the tasty filling. Next, mix ground beef with creamy ricotta cheese to create the savory core of the dish. In addition, mozzarella cheese adds a gooey, melty touch, while Parmesan cheese brings a rich, nutty taste for balance.
Moreover, a flavorful marinara sauce is key to enhancing the dish. This tangy, herb-rich sauce pairs wonderfully with the filling. Furthermore, Italian seasonings such as basil, oregano, and garlic are essential for adding a true Italian touch to the recipe.
Key Ingredients:
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Ground beef
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Marinara sauce
- Italian herbs (basil, oregano, garlic)
With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to make a tasty baked stuffed shells dish. As a result, your family is sure to love it. Now, let’s follow a step-by-step guide to assemble this comforting meal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Beef Stuffed Shells
Making stuffed pasta shells with meat is easier than you think.
Follow these simple steps to create a dish everyone will love. In this guide, we’ll cover everything, from preparing the filling to baking these delicious stuffed pasta shells.
Preparing the Meat and Ricotta Filling
To start, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s cooked, drain any extra fat and let it cool slightly. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix the beef with ricotta cheese, Parmesan, eggs, parsley, salt, and pepper. When combined, the mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Stuffing and Assembly Techniques
Next, boil jumbo pasta shells until they are al dente. Drain and allow them to cool slightly. Then, use a spoon or piping bag to fill each shell with the meat and cheese mixture. After that, arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish, leaving enough space for the sauce to surround them.
Baking Instructions for Best Results
Before baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, spread marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re generously coated. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finally, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to achieve a golden, slightly crispy top.
By following these steps, you’ll create a delicious stuffed shells recipe with meat that will impress family and friends. Enjoy this comforting Italian dish for a cozy dinner tonight!
Tips for Creating Restaurant-Quality Italian Stuffed Shells
Making your own Italian stuffed shells taste like they’re from a restaurant is easier than you think. To achieve this, focus on a few key details that will elevate the dish. Here are some tips to impress your guests and make restaurant-quality stuffed shells at home.
1. Select High-Quality Ingredients
First and foremost, the best stuffed shells begin with fresh, high-quality ingredients. For example, choose premium ricotta cheese, grass-fed ground beef, and ripe tomatoes for the marinara sauce. Additionally, opt for fresh Parmesan cheese and sturdy jumbo pasta shells to make a noticeable difference.
2. Properly Season the Filling
In addition to great ingredients, seasoning is crucial for flavor. Use plenty of fresh basil, oregano, and parsley. To enhance the taste even further, add garlic powder, onion powder, or a touch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Achieve the Ideal Cheese-to-Meat Ratio
Moreover, getting the balance of ricotta and ground beef just right is key. Aim for a 2:1 ratio of ricotta to beef. However, you can adjust this depending on your personal preference for flavor and texture.
4. Perfect the Baking Process
Finally, the baking process is critical to achieving perfection. Preheat your oven, cover the dish with foil, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. After baking, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
By following these tips, you can transform your homemade stuffed shells into a dish that tastes like it came from a top Italian restaurant.
Storage and Reheating Your Baked Pasta Shells
Enjoying your baked stuffed shells doesn’t have to end at dinner. With proper storage and reheating techniques, you can savor leftovers for days. Here’s how to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezing Instructions
Stuffed shells are perfect for freezing, making them an excellent make-ahead meal. After baking, let the shells cool completely before freezing. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the shells to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, follow the reheating instructions below.
Best Practices for Leftovers
- Always store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Be sure to let the shells cool completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.
- To avoid sticking, avoid stacking the shells in the container.
Reheating Methods
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place shells in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm shells in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your stuffed shells long after they’re first made.
Conclusion
This stuffed shells recipe with meat is a true gem in the world of Italian comfort food. It combines savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese. This mix creates a flavor that is simply irresistible.
Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to become a cherished part of your dinner rotation.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality Italian feast right in your own kitchen. From the tender, flavorful beef filling to the perfectly cooked pasta shells, every bite is a delightful explosion of taste.
I encourage you to give this stuffed shells recipe with meat a try and experiment with your own unique variations. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal that will have your family and friends raving. Savor the comforting flavors of this Italian classic, and let it become a new staple in your culinary repertoire.
FAQ
Key Ingredients What are the key ingredients needed for this stuffed shells recipe with meat?
You’ll need jumbo pasta shells, ground beef, and ricotta cheese. Also, mozzarella, Parmesan, marinara sauce, and Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic.
How do I prepare the meat and ricotta filling for the stuffed shells?
Brown the ground beef and drain the fat. Then, mix it with ricotta cheese, Parmesan, beaten egg, and seasonings. Use oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
What’s the best way to stuff the pasta shells and assemble the dish?
Stuff each pasta shell with the meat and ricotta mix. Place them in a baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over them and top with mozzarella cheese.
How long should I bake the stuffed shells, and at what temperature?
Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. The cheese should melt and bubble. Cover with foil for the first 20 minutes to avoid over-browning.
Can I freeze these stuffed shells for later use?
Yes, you can! They make a great make-ahead meal. Assemble, cover, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
How do I reheat leftover stuffed shells?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Or, use the microwave, covering to prevent drying.