Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Bursting with flavor and topped with melted cheese, they are perfect for family dinners or meal prep. This recipe combines savory ground beef with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, making it a satisfying choice for any occasion. The rich marinara sauce ties everything together, creating a dish that is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish can be made by cooks of all levels.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of meats, cheeses, and marinara sauce offers a rich taste experience.
• Versatile for Meals: Great for weeknight dinners or as a make-ahead option for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or family meals, everyone will love these cheesy stuffed shells.
• Comfort Food Classic: A satisfying dish that warms the heart and fills the stomach.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your stuffed shells, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the meat and vegetables evenly while allowing enough space to stir ingredients together.
• 13-inch baking dish: Provides ample space to arrange your stuffed shells in one layer for even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining the filling ingredients thoroughly before stuffing the shells.

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Ingredients

To create 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 Ricotta 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 Assembling

• 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) so it’s ready when you assemble your stuffed shells.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

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

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Sauté the diced red and green bell peppers until soft.
3. Add ground beef, cooking until browned.
4. Stir in marinara sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Simmer briefly before removing from heat.

Step 4: Make the Filling

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

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Fill each cooked jumbo shell generously with the ricotta mixture. Ensure they are packed well for maximum flavor.

Step 6: Assemble

In a greased 13-inch baking dish:
1. Spread some meat sauce at the bottom.
2. Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer over this sauce.
3. Pour remaining meat sauce over all shells.

Step 7: Bake

Cover your baking dish with foil:
1. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
3. Increase temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese melts perfectly.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, garnish your delicious stuffed shells with fresh parsley before serving warm!

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 complemented with various sides and garnishes to elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Whole basil leaves offer a fragrant touch that enhances the Italian flavor profile.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich stuffed shells.
• Mixed Greens: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette lightens the meal.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up marinara sauce left on the plate.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence, top garlic bread with mozzarella before baking.

Serve with Extra Marinara Sauce

• Sauce on the Side: Offer additional marinara sauce for dipping or drizzling over the shells for those who love extra flavor.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

To achieve the best stuffed shells with meat, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your dish is flavorful and satisfying every time.

• Bold Flavoring: Season both the filling and meat sauce generously. This enhances overall taste and keeps every bite exciting.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Undercook the jumbo shells slightly during boiling to avoid them becoming mushy after baking.
• Layer Wisely: Spread some sauce at the bottom of your baking dish before adding the shells. This prevents sticking and adds moisture.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella and ricotta for creaminess and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Broil for Finish: Broil your dish for a couple of minutes at the end of baking. This creates a beautifully golden crust on top.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely for serving.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Accompanying your stuffed shells with meat can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these delicious side dishes that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make an irresistible addition.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and balsamic glaze offers a bright contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth to your plate.
4. Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, peppers, artichokes, and cheeses provides variety and excitement.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears bring an elegant touch to your meal while staying healthy.
6. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): A low-carb alternative that pairs wonderfully when topped with marinara or pesto sauce.
7. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction creates a refreshing palate cleanser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Stuffed Shells with Meat, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning your meat mixture can lead to bland stuffed shells. Make sure to use spices like garlic and onion powder generously.

• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the jumbo shells too long, they may break apart when you stuff them. Always follow package instructions for al dente pasta.

• Not draining spinach well: Excess water from cooked spinach can make your filling watery. Always drain and squeeze out any moisture before mixing it into your filling.

• Packing shells too loosely: If you don’t pack the filling tightly, it can fall out during baking. Ensure each shell is filled completely for a better experience.

• Forgetting to cover while baking: Leaving the dish uncovered during baking can dry out the cheese and sauce. Always cover the dish with foil for part of the cooking time.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Freeze stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes or until warmed throughout.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water, cover, and heat until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still provide delicious flavor in your stuffed shells with meat.

How do I prevent my shells from breaking?

Cook your pasta just until al dente and handle them gently while stuffing to keep them intact.

What can I use instead of ricotta?

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative for a different taste and texture.

How can I customize my stuffed shells with meat?

Feel free to add veggies like zucchini or mushrooms into your filling or top with different cheeses according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, so give it a try!