Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delightful and comforting dish that everyone will love. Filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and flavorful spices, these shells are baked in marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe stands out for its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe features straightforward steps, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy ricotta delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: Great as a hearty main dish for any occasion, these stuffed shells can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare these shells in advance and bake them when you’re ready for a warm, comforting meal.
• Family Favorite: With cheesy goodness and a satisfying filling, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth, having the right tools is essential. Gather your equipment before you start for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the meat and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish ensures even baking and helps keep the stuffed shells intact.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all filling ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

For these delicious stuffed shells, you’ll need the following:

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 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) to ensure it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

Boil the jumbo shells in salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the diced red and green bell peppers; sauté until soft.
3. Incorporate the ground beef into the skillet, cooking until browned.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and seasonings. Let simmer briefly 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 until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with a generous amount of the ricotta filling. Ensure they are packed well but do not overstuff.

Step 6: Assemble

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

Step 7: Bake

Cover your baking dish with foil:
1. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil; add remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
3. Increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked to perfection, garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm to enjoy this comforting meal!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells with meat make for a delightful main dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing and topped with croutons adds freshness.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complement the richness of the stuffed shells.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter makes for a crunchy side that balances well with the softness of the shells.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Elevate your garlic bread by adding mozzarella cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Offer Extra Sauce

• Marinara Sauce: Serve additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling over each serving.
• Alfredo Sauce: A creamy Alfredo sauce can provide a rich contrast to the meat-filled shells.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor when sprinkled on top before serving.
• Grated Parmesan: A dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can enhance the overall taste and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Complement your stuffed shells with delicious side dishes that enhance your meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil and garlic adds nutritious color and flavor.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy green side that’s easy to prepare.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
4. Risotto: Creamy risotto can serve as an indulgent side that pairs wonderfully with hearty pasta dishes.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb, zucchini noodles can be served alongside for those looking for a lighter option.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic makes for a flavorful appetizer before diving into the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making stuffed shells with meat, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can lead to bland flavors. Always season both the meat sauce and the filling generously.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the jumbo shells too long can make them mushy. Aim for al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Not packing the filling: Failing to fill the shells completely may result in a less satisfying bite. Pack each shell tightly with the ricotta mixture.
• Using low-quality marinara: A subpar marinara can ruin your dish. Choose a high-quality sauce or make your own for better flavor.
• Neglecting to broil: Skipping the broil step means missing out on that perfect golden top. Always finish under the broiler for a crispy finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep them fresh.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use freezer-safe containers.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm, usually 2-4 minutes depending on your microwave’s power.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to create steam until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to stuff shells?

The best way is by using a piping bag or simply a spoon. This ensures even filling without making a mess.

Can I make stuffed shells with meat ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I customize my stuffed shells with meat?

Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini into your meat sauce or switch cheeses based on your preference.

What types of meat can I use for stuffed shells?

Ground beef is popular, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for different flavors.

Are stuffed shells with meat healthy?

They can be made healthier by using lean meats and adding more vegetables into both the filling and sauce.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed shells with meat are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this dish by changing up ingredients based on what you have available. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for busy days, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try!