Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delectable choice for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef and Italian sausage, enveloped in creamy ricotta and topped with gooey mozzarella. It’s comfort food at its finest, making it a perfect addition to your meal prep lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: These stuffed shells are hearty and satisfying, perfect for warming up on chilly nights.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe allows anyone to whip up a delicious meal without fuss.
• Versatile Dish: Customize the filling with your favorite veggies or cheeses for a unique twist that suits your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze them for later.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy stuffed shells, making it an ideal dinner option for families.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in ease of preparation and cooking efficiency.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking pot for pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Perfect for browning meats and vegetables evenly while maximizing flavor.
• Baking Dish: A spacious dish allows you to layer your stuffed shells without crowding.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure every bite is flavorful.

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 Italian sausage
• 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, shredded
• 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’re done assembling your dish.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions. Drain them carefully once done, then set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet:
* Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
* Sauté the diced bell peppers until soft.
* Add both ground sausage and beef; cook until browned.
* Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer this mixture for a few minutes before setting it 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 everything until well combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Take each cooked jumbo shell and fill it generously with the ricotta mixture. Ensure they are packed well for optimal flavor.

Step 6: Assemble

In your baking dish:
Spread some meat sauce at the bottom.
Place stuffed shells in a single layer over this sauce.
Pour any remaining sauce over the top of these shells.

Step 7: Bake

Cover your baking dish and bake for about 20 minutes at 350°F. After that:
Remove from oven and sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Increase oven temperature to 375°F and bake another 15 minutes until cheese is melted. For an extra touch, broil briefly until golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your deliciously cheesy stuffed shells!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells with meat are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement this hearty meal.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese with Caesar dressing offer a classic option that pairs well with Italian flavors.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Crispy bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up marinara sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Elevate the classic version by adding melted cheese for an extra indulgent treat.

Serve with Wine

• Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Merlot complements the savory flavors of the stuffed shells beautifully.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water adds a refreshing touch without overpowering the meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley not only adds color but enhances the flavor profile of your dish.

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

To achieve the ultimate stuffed shells with meat, follow these simple tips that ensure each bite is delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality meats elevate the flavor and texture of your stuffed shells.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the jumbo shells al dente as they will continue cooking in the oven, maintaining their shape and texture.
• Mix Well: Ensure that your ricotta filling is mixed thoroughly for even distribution of flavors throughout each shell.
• Layer Generously: Spread enough marinara sauce on both the bottom and top of your baking dish to keep the shells moist during baking.
• Broil for Perfection: Broiling at the end gives a beautiful golden top to your cheesy stuffed shells, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

Complement your stuffed shells with these tasty side dishes that bring balance and variety to your meal.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds healthy color and flavor.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious crunch that pairs well with creamy pasta dishes.
3. Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting appetizer before the main course.
4. Risotto: Creamy risotto infused with herbs or mushrooms provides an elegant touch to your dinner table.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing bite-sized treat.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lighten up your meal by serving zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic alongside your stuffed shells.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making stuffed shells with meat, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your meat sauce properly can lead to bland stuffed shells. Be sure to use sufficient salt, pepper, and spices for a flavorful filling.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the jumbo shells too long will make them mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente since they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Not packing the filling: Underfilling your shells can result in dry bites. Make sure each shell is generously filled with the ricotta mixture for a creamy texture.
• Rushing the baking process: Baking at too high a temperature may cause uneven cooking. Follow the temperature guidelines for perfectly melted cheese and heated filling.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Skipping fresh parsley as a garnish can take away from the dish’s presentation. Always add a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving for color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow stuffed shells to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking and allow to thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to cook.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing stuffed shells with meat.

Can I use different types of meat in my stuffed shells?

Yes! Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer lighter meats instead of beef or sausage.

How do I make vegetarian stuffed shells?

For vegetarian stuffed shells, simply omit the meat and replace it with additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini mixed with ricotta.

Can I prepare stuffed shells with meat ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

What type of cheese works best for stuffing?

Ricotta cheese is traditional, but you can also mix in cottage cheese or goat cheese for different flavors and textures.

How long does it take to bake stuffed shells with meat?

Baking typically takes about 35 minutes total—20 minutes covered at 350°F followed by an additional 15 minutes uncovered at 375°F.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed shells with meat are not only comforting but also versatile. This recipe allows room for customization—add your favorite veggies or switch up the cheeses for a personal touch. Try this delicious dish today!