Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef
Indulge in a comforting dish of stuffed shells with ground beef that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. These large pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, ricotta, and spices, baked in marinara sauce, and topped with gooey cheese. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for any weeknight meal or special occasion that calls for hearty Italian flavors.
Ingredients
– 20 large pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart until fully cooked.
4. Drain excess fat from the beef and return to heat.
5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef; mix well.
6. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg until smooth.
7. Fold the cooked ground beef into the cheese mixture.
8. Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
9. Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
10. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, then pour the remaining marinara over them and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter option. Additionally, you can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Stuffed shells can also be frozen before baking for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Ensure the filling is well-seasoned for the best flavor.
– Avoid overstuffing the shells to prevent them from breaking.
– Use enough sauce to keep the shells moist during baking.
– Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for variety.
– Add chopped spinach or herbs to the filling for extra nutrition.
– Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later.
– Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage as alternatives to ground beef for varied flavors and textures.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months, making them perfect for meal prep.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.
What sauce works best with stuffed shells?
Marinara sauce is traditional, but you can also use Alfredo or a creamy tomato sauce for a different twist.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake, which helps the flavors meld together.
Conclusion
Stuffed shells with ground beef are a delightful and satisfying dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With their cheesy, meaty filling and rich sauce, they are perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe any night of the week!
Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the beef and return to heat.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef; mix well.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg until smooth.
- Fold the cooked ground beef into the cheese mixture.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish, then pour the remaining marinara over them and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
