Stuffed shells with meat is a rich and flavorful Italian dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground meat, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, all baked in a luscious marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping, as it can be made ahead and frozen for later. The combination of creamy cheese, hearty meat, and tangy tomato sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Meat Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Season the Meat: Add garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the meat. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat with ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Stir until well incorporated.
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray.
- Fill the Shells: Using a spoon, carefully stuff each cooked shell with the meat and cheese mixture, making sure they are generously filled.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in a single layer.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake the Shells: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.