Name: Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 box of large pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 jar (24 oz marinara sauce); 1 egg; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Indulge in a classic Italian-American dish with these stuffed shells filled with savory ground beef, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, stuffed shells with ground beef are sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

– 1 box of large pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 15 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30-35 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (about 2 stuffed shells) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 38g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; drain the excess fat.
4. In a bowl, mix the cooked ground beef, ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
7. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
8. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
9. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, use low-fat cheese for a healthier twist. For a vegetarian version, consider filling the shells with spinach and ricotta cheese instead of meat.

Serving and Pairings

These stuffed shells pair beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. A light red wine, such as Chianti, complements the flavors of the dish perfectly, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pasta shells can lead to breakage.
Not seasoning the cheese filling can make it bland.
Using too little sauce may result in dry shells.
Forgetting to cover with foil can lead to burnt cheese.
Skipping the resting time after baking can make them fall apart.

Helpful Tips

Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Experiment with different herbs in the filling.
Make the filling ahead of time to save prep time.

FAQs

Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shells and filling in advance, then assemble and bake them when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

You can use Alfredo sauce or a homemade tomato sauce as alternatives, depending on your flavor preferences.

Are stuffed shells gluten-free?

Regular pasta shells are not gluten-free, but you can find gluten-free alternatives made from rice or chickpeas.

How can I make these shells spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for a kick.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, stuffed shells can be frozen. Just ensure they’re properly covered to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells with ground beef are a comforting, delicious dish that brings the family together. With layers of flavor and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, these stuffed shells are sure to please everyone at the table.