Description

12 large pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat and season with garlic powder, onion powder,
salt, and black pepper.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and the cooked beef. Stir until well combined.
Spoon the cheese and beef mixture into each pasta shell, packing them tightly.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, then place the stuffed shells on top. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shells with additional mozzarella cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Kcal: 450 per serving Servings: 4 servings

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect stuffed shells every time. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 12 large pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and lay them on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. While the shells cook, brown 1 lb of ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain the fat thoroughly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 cup of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and the cooked beef. Season the mixture generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each shell with the mixture. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells seam-side up in the dish and top with the remaining sauce.

Serving Suggestions

These rich and cheesy shells are a complete meal on their own but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad with homemade croutons and a tangy dressing. For a vegetable side, roasted asparagus or garlic breadsticks are excellent choices. To balance the hearty flavors, offer a light, acidic palate cleanser like a lemon sorbet for dessert.

How-to Summary

In summary: cook shells, brown and season beef, mix with cheeses and egg, stuff shells, layer in sauced dish, bake covered for 20 minutes, top with extra cheese, bake uncovered for 5 more minutes, and garnish with fresh basil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Can I use a different type of meat? Yes. Ground turkey, Italian sausage, or a plant-based meat alternative work well. Adjust seasoning as needed.

How do I prevent the shells from tearing while stuffing? Ensure you do not overcook the pasta initially. Letting them cool slightly makes them easier to handle. Using a piping bag or a small spoon helps.

Can I freeze baked stuffed shells? Yes. Cool completely, then wrap the baking dish or individual portions tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

What can I substitute for ricotta? Cottage cheese (small curd) or a mixture of cream cheese and mascarpone can be used, though the texture will vary slightly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls: Overcooking the pasta shells initially, which leads to tearing. Not draining the cooked beef thoroughly, resulting in a greasy filling. Skipping the egg, which acts as a crucial binder for the filling. Forgetting to put sauce on the bottom of the dish, which can cause the shells to stick. Adding all the cheese to the filling instead of reserving some for the golden, bubbly topping.

Conclusion

This stuffed shells recipe is a dependable and crowd-pleasing classic that combines simple ingredients into a comforting, impressive dish. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a perfect baked pasta dinner. Its versatility for make-ahead meals and freezing makes it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Serve it with your favorite sides for a truly satisfying family meal.