Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe stands out with its rich marinara sauce and cheesy filling. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage creates a hearty meal that’s loved by both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of spices and meats creates a savory filling that’s bursting with flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, this dish can be made by cooks of any skill level.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch, freeze some, and enjoy later for busy weekdays.
• Cheesy Goodness: Topped with melty mozzarella cheese, it’s an irresistible treat!
• Versatile Dish: Customize the filling or sauces to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make preparing your Stuffed Shells with Meat even easier. Here are the essentials you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Perfect for browning meat and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Baking Dish: A sturdy dish ensures even cooking and easy serving.
• Mixing Bowl: Helps combine your filling ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

To make these 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 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 your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

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

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
* Sauté the diced bell peppers until they are soft.
* Add ground beef, cooking until browned.
* Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
* Let it simmer for a few minutes before setting aside.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
* Combine ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.
* Mix until everything is well blended.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Take each cooked jumbo shell:
* Fill it generously with the ricotta mixture.
* Ensure they are packed well.

Step 6: Assemble

In your baking dish:
* Spread some meat sauce at the bottom.
* Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer over it.
* Pour remaining meat sauce over all shells.

Step 7: Bake

Cover the dish:
* Bake for 20 minutes at 350°F.
* Remove cover, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
* Increase temperature to 375°F; bake for another 15 minutes or until cheese melts perfectly. Broil for a few minutes if you desire a bubbly top.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy these delicious Stuffed Shells with Meat as a perfect meal!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells with meat are a hearty and satisfying dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Consider these serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of flavor.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toast slices of baguette or Italian bread brushed with garlic butter for a crunchy complement.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top the classic version with mozzarella cheese and bake until bubbly for an indulgent treat.

Serve with Additional Marinara

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

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Provide red pepper flakes on the side for those who enjoy a little heat added to their meal.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

To make sure your stuffed shells turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Flavor Choices: Use high-quality marinara sauce and fresh ingredients to maximize flavor.
• Boldly Pack the Shells: Ensure that you fill each jumbo shell generously to avoid gaps; this keeps the filling moist while baking.
• Bold Baking Method: Cover the dish when baking initially to retain moisture, then uncover it to achieve a golden cheese topping.
• Bold Cheese Blend: Mix different types of cheese such as mozzarella and Parmesan for depth of flavor and texture.
• Bold Pre-Cooking Prep: Prepare all your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells pair wonderfully with various sides that balance their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Bold Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper then roast until tender for a healthy complement.
2. Bold Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli steamed until crisp-tender adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Bold Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies and lemon dressing provides a nutritious contrast.
4. Bold Antipasto Platter: Create a platter with olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses as an appetizer before your main dish.
5. Bold Creamy Polenta: Soft polenta adds creaminess that pairs well with the hearty stuffed shells.
6. Bold Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy baked zucchini fries seasoned with herbs offer a fun finger food option alongside stuffed shells.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed shells can be a delightful dish when made correctly. Here are common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your stuffed shells with meat turn out perfectly.

• Boldly overcooking the pasta: If the jumbo shells are overcooked, they may tear when you stuff them. Cook them just until al dente for best results.
• Boldly skimping on seasoning: A bland filling can ruin the dish. Be sure to season both the meat sauce and the ricotta mixture well to enhance flavor.
• Boldly underfilling the shells: If you don’t pack enough filling into each shell, they may collapse during baking. Fill them generously for a hearty meal.
• Boldly neglecting to cover while baking: Failing to cover the dish can lead to dry stuffed shells. Cover with foil initially, then uncover for browning at the end.
• Boldly avoiding garnishes: Not adding fresh parsley or other garnishes can make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds flavor and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2–3 months.
• Layer parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power in microwave-safe dishes until warm, checking frequently.
• Bold Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of broth and cover, heating on low until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making stuffed shells with meat that might help you out.

What meats work best for Stuffed Shells with Meat?

Ground beef is a classic choice, but you can substitute turkey or lamb for variety. Just ensure any meat is fully cooked before stuffing.

Can I make Stuffed Shells with Meat ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking.

What sauce pairs well with Stuffed Shells with Meat?

A robust marinara sauce works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with pesto or Alfredo sauce for a twist.

How do I customize my Stuffed Shells with Meat recipe?

You can add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to your filling or use different cheeses based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

These stuffed shells with meat offer a comforting meal perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Their versatility means you can easily customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences. Give this delicious recipe a try, and enjoy every cheesy bite!