Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With a rich filling and cheesy topping, they are perfect for family dinners or meal prep. This recipe combines the heartiness of ground beef with creamy ricotta, all nestled in tender shells and baked in marinara sauce. It’s a satisfying meal that will please everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for beginner cooks or busy weekdays.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of beef and flavorful spices creates an irresistible taste in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily swap meats or add your favorite vegetables to customize the filling.
• Make Ahead Friendly: These stuffed shells are great for meal prep; you can prepare them in advance and bake when ready.
• Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or potlucks, this dish will impress your guests with its deliciousness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to streamline your efforts.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for browning meat evenly while allowing space for sautéing vegetables.
• Baking dish: Provides a perfect environment for baking your stuffed shells, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients without making a mess, facilitating easy mixing.

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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
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt

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 the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cook Pasta

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet:
* Heat olive oil over medium heat.
* Sauté diced bell peppers until soft.
* Add ground beef and cook until browned.
* Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer briefly before setting aside.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large bowl:
* Mix ricotta cheese, spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Fill each cooked jumbo shell with the ricotta mixture. Ensure they are well-packed.

Step 6: Assemble

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

Step 7: Bake

Cover and bake for 20 minutes at 350°F. Remove from oven; sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Increase oven temperature to 375°F and bake for another 15 minutes or until cheese is melted. Broil briefly if desired for a golden top.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Now you have a delicious recipe for Stuffed Shells with Meat that is sure to be a hit at any meal! Enjoy!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells with meat are a delightful and hearty dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a creamy dressing and croutons adds a crunchy contrast.

Offer Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Knots: These buttery knots are easy to make and bring an extra cheesy flavor to the table.

Enhance with Additional Toppings

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Sprinkling herbs on top before serving adds freshness and enhances the visual appeal.
• Extra Mozzarella Cheese: For cheese lovers, adding more mozzarella on top right before serving creates a gooey delight.

Serve with Extra Sauce

• Marinara Sauce: Keep some marinara sauce warm and serve it on the side for dipping or drizzling over the shells.
• Creamy Alfredo Sauce: A rich Alfredo sauce can add another layer of flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

To ensure your stuffed shells are truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Use ample garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to enhance the flavors.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your jumbo shells are cooked al dente so they hold their shape when stuffed and baked.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh ingredients like homemade marinara sauce or high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
• Pack Filling Generously: Stuff each shell well; this ensures every bite is filled with delicious filling and flavors.
• Broil for a Golden Top: Broiling at the end gives you that beautifully golden, bubbly cheese topping that everyone loves.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking makes it easier to serve and enhances the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Accompanying your stuffed shells with sides can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil brings color and nutrition to your plate.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch that balances the richness of the main dish.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
4. Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers offers variety and excitement.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini topped with marinara sauce can serve as a lighter alternative next to your stuffed shells.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with herb butter adds sweetness that offsets savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making stuffed shells with meat, there are a few common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Under-seasoning: Not adding enough salt and spices can lead to bland stuffed shells. Always taste your filling and sauce before assembling.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the jumbo shells too long can cause them to break while stuffing. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Skipping the simmer: Failing to let the meat sauce simmer can result in a less flavorful dish. Allow it to meld for at least 10 minutes.
• Packing the shells too tightly: If you overfill the shells, they may burst during baking. Fill each shell generously but not excessively.
• Not using enough cheese: Cheese is key for that gooey texture. Don’t skimp on the mozzarella or Parmesan when topping your dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet with a little broth or water, cover, and heat on low until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about stuffed shells with meat that might help you:

Can I use different meats in stuffed shells with meat?

Yes! Ground turkey or lamb can be excellent alternatives to beef or sausage.

How do I make vegetarian stuffed shells?

Simply replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a delicious veggie version.

What sauce works best with stuffed shells with meat?

A rich marinara sauce complements the flavors perfectly, but you could also try Alfredo or a creamy tomato sauce.

How should I serve stuffed shells with meat?

Serve them warm, garnished with fresh parsley or basil, alongside a simple salad or garlic bread.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed shells with meat are a fantastic comfort food option that is both satisfying and versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or cheeses based on your preference. Give this delicious dish a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping!