Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, creamy ricotta, and topped with luscious melted cheese, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The rich marinara sauce adds depth and flavor, making each bite heavenly. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, these stuffed shells will impress everyone with their taste and heartiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for beginners.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef and spices creates a mouthwatering filling that complements the creamy ricotta beautifully.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or pair it with your favorite salad for a complete meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: These stuffed shells can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy goodness and rich flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy friends and family alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best stuffed shells, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish (13-inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and browning meat evenly.
• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking while allowing for a generous amount of sauce at the bottom.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot helps cook the jumbo shells evenly without sticking together.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Stuffed Shells with Meat, gather the following ingredients:

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 Assembly

• 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 to bake your stuffed shells perfectly.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Sauté the diced red and green bell peppers until they soften. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes before setting aside.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and kosher salt until well mixed.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Ensure they are packed well.

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Spread some meat sauce on the bottom of a 13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of this sauce. Pour any remaining meat sauce over them.

Step 7: Bake

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove foil; sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly. Broil briefly at the end if you prefer a golden crust.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your flavorful Stuffed Shells with Meat!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells with meat make an excellent main course that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these shells can be paired with sides and garnishes to enhance their flavor.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the marinara sauce.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tang, balancing the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens offer a refreshing contrast to the cheesy filling.

Offer Additional Sauces

• Extra Marinara Sauce: Serve extra marinara on the side for those who love saucy pasta dishes.
• Garlic Bread Dip: Provide garlic bread sticks for dipping into the marinara sauce, enhancing the meal experience.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread pairs wonderfully and is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft focaccia brings a different texture and flavor to the table.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

To achieve perfectly stuffed shells with meat, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out flavorful and satisfying every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with spices! Use ample garlic powder and onion powder to enhance flavors.
• Properly Cook Pasta: Make sure not to overcook the jumbo shells; they should be al dente to hold up during baking.
• Pack Filling Tightly: Ensure each shell is filled generously but tightly for even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheese to elevate the overall taste of your dish.
• Broil for Crunch: For an irresistible cheesy topping, broil briefly after baking for a golden-brown finish.
• Let it Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps set up the filling and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Pairing side dishes with stuffed shells enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, it’s perfect for dipping into marinara sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic salad that complements rich pasta dishes with its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing out the heaviness of stuffed shells.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring sweetness and depth, making them an ideal companion.
5. Caprese Salad: Layered mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness and acidity.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables provides variety and flavor contrasts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Stuffed Shells with Meat, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shells: Cooking the jumbo shells too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente.
• Under-seasoning the filling: A bland filling will lead to tasteless stuffed shells. Make sure to season your ricotta mixture well with salt and spices.
• Not packing the shells tightly: If you don’t fill the shells enough, they may collapse during baking. Ensure they are filled generously with the ricotta mixture.
• Skipping the broil step: Not broiling at the end can leave your cheese underwhelming. A quick broil adds a golden, bubbly finish that enhances flavor and presentation.
• Rushing the cooling time: Cutting into the dish too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool slightly before serving for better structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Freeze stuffed shells before baking for best results.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a skillet over low heat. Cover and heat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of meat for Stuffed Shells with Meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors or textures.

What is the best sauce for stuffed shells?

A rich marinara sauce complements Stuffed Shells with Meat perfectly, adding moisture and flavor.

Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day ahead and store them in the fridge before baking.

How do I customize my stuffed shells?

Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to your filling or use different cheeses based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to customize based on what you have on hand. Whether for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try and make it your own!