Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are the ultimate comfort food, blending rich flavors and creamy textures in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is easy to follow and highlights the deliciousness of homemade Italian cuisine. Each shell is filled with a savory meat mixture and topped with gooey melted cheese, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful filling: The combination of ground beef and spices creates a satisfying taste that elevates traditional stuffed shells.
• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile dish: Great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or freezing for later meals.
• Cheesy goodness: Topped with layers of melted mozzarella, each bite is a delightful experience.
• Hearty and filling: Packed with protein and flavor, these stuffed shells will keep you satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Stuffed Shells with Meat, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish (13-inch)
• Large mixing bowl
• Pot (for boiling pasta)
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet allows even cooking for the meat sauce while providing enough space to sauté vegetables.
• Baking dish: A 13-inch baking dish fits all the stuffed shells comfortably while ensuring they bake evenly.
• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining your filling ingredients without making a mess.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 when you’re ready to bake.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

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

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet:
1. Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the diced bell peppers until they become soft.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Let it simmer for a few minutes before removing from heat.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with the ricotta mixture. Make sure they’re packed well to hold their shape during baking.

Step 6: Assemble

In a greased baking dish:
1. Spread some of the meat sauce on the bottom.
2. Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer over this sauce.
3. Pour remaining meat sauce over all stuffed shells.

Step 7: Bake

Cover with aluminum foil:
1. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil; sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
3. Increase oven temperature to 375°F and bake for another 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked:
– Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm to enjoy your delicious Stuffed Shells with Meat!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Serving stuffed shells with meat is a delightful experience that can enhance any meal. These cheesy, hearty shells can be paired with various accompaniments to elevate their flavor and presentation.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Caesar Salad: Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan for a classic pairing that complements the flavors well.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices topped with garlic butter provide a crunchy side that is perfect for scooping up marinara sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Elevate traditional garlic bread by adding melted mozzarella on top for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Serve with Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Offering freshly grated Parmesan allows guests to sprinkle more cheese over their stuffed shells, enhancing the overall taste.
• Mozzarella Cheese: A side of extra mozzarella gives diners the option to enjoy even more cheesy goodness.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

To achieve the ultimate stuffed shells with meat, pay attention to these simple tips that can make all the difference in flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano in your stuffing mix for an added burst of flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure that your jumbo shells are cooked al dente before filling them. This prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
• Layer Sauce Generously: Don’t skimp on marinara sauce! A generous layer keeps the stuffed shells moist while they bake.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. They melt better and provide a richer taste.
• Broil for Perfection: Finish off by broiling the dish for a couple of minutes to achieve a beautifully golden top layer of cheese.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Pairing stuffed shells with meat alongside complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition to your meal.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots offer a colorful and healthy side.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition without overpowering the main dish. Drizzle with lemon juice for an extra zing!
4. Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad made of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze balances out the richness of the stuffed shells.
5. Antipasto Platter: Create an antipasto platter featuring olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables for a flavorful starter that complements Italian cuisine.
6. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia bread pairs wonderfully as it can be used to soak up any leftover sauce on the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making stuffed shells with meat, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the salt: Not seasoning each layer can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season the meat sauce, filling, and pasta water for enhanced taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the jumbo shells too long will make them mushy. Boil them until just al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Underfilling the shells: If you don’t pack the filling tightly enough, your stuffed shells may fall apart during cooking. Fill each shell generously for a satisfying bite.
• Not using enough sauce: Insufficient sauce can lead to dry stuffed shells. Ensure there’s plenty of marinara both under and over the shells before baking.
• Neglecting cheese toppings: Skipping the extra cheese on top means missing out on a deliciously gooey finish. Always add cheese before baking for that perfect melt.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store cooked stuffed shells in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• • Duration: Freeze uncooked or cooked stuffed shells for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet, add shells, and cover. Cook on low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about stuffed shells with meat:

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb for beef or Italian sausage based on your preference.

Can I prepare stuffed shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking.

What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Stuffed shells pair well with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I customize my stuffed shells with meat?

Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini into your meat sauce or mix different cheeses into the filling!

How do I know when my stuffed shells are done?

The cheese should be melted and bubbly, while the edges of the sauce should be slightly caramelized.

Final Thoughts

These stuffed shells with meat offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and sauces according to your tastes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that your family will love!