Stuffed Shells with Meat

These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delightful comfort food, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Each jumbo shell is filled with a savory blend of ground beef and Italian sausage, layered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with gooey melted mozzarella. This recipe stands out for its robust flavors and satisfying texture, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: These stuffed shells are filling enough to please even the hungriest eaters.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of meat and cheese creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for dinner parties, family gatherings, or meal prep; they reheat beautifully!
• Kid-Friendly: Kids adore cheesy pasta dishes, making this a hit for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Ideal for browning the meat and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Baking Dish: A spacious dish ensures that all stuffed shells fit comfortably without overcrowding.
• Mixing Bowls: Perfect for combining your filling ingredients thoroughly before stuffing.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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
– 32 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup cooked spinach, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan
– 1 box jumbo shells
– 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, for serving

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Stuffed Shells with Meat

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your stuffed shells cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

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

Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet:
* Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
* Add the diced red and green bell peppers; sauté until soft.
* Stir in the ground Italian sausage and beef, cooking until browned.
* Mix in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Simmer for a few minutes, then set aside.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
* Combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.
* Mix until all ingredients are well integrated.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with the ricotta mixture. Ensure they are packed tightly but not overflowing.

Step 6: Assemble

In a prepared baking dish:
* Spread a few spoonfuls of meat sauce on the bottom.
* Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce.
* Pour remaining meat sauce over the top of the shells.

Step 7: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes at 350°F. Remove from oven:
* Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
* Increase oven temperature to 375°F. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted. For extra crispiness, broil for a few minutes at the end.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious homemade stuffed shells!

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat

Stuffed shells with meat are a delicious and comforting dish that can be served in various ways. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, consider these serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment, garlic bread complements the rich flavors of stuffed shells perfectly. Serve warm and toasted for extra crunch.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy Caesar dressing adds freshness to your meal while balancing the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast to the cheesy pasta.

Include Some Vegetables

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil brings color and nutrition to your plate. Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers work wonderfully.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of green and is easy to prepare alongside the main dish.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Shredded Parmesan: Serve bowls of shredded Parmesan cheese at the table for guests who love an extra cheesy experience!

How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat

Creating perfect stuffed shells with meat requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano in the meat sauce for enhanced flavor.
• Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality marinara sauce and cheeses for richer taste.
• Properly Cook Pasta: Cook jumbo shells al dente; they will continue cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
• Pack Filling Generously: Ensure each shell is fully packed with filling for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Cover While Baking: Covering the dish in foil initially helps steam the shells, allowing them to heat through evenly.
• Let It Rest: Allow stuffed shells to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps set layers and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat

When serving stuffed shells with meat, pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with marinara flavors.
2. Italian Roasted Potatoes: Toss baby potatoes with Italian herbs and roast them until crispy for a hearty addition.
3. Bruschetta: Fresh tomato bruschetta served on toasted baguette slices offers a bright appetizer before diving into stuffed shells.
4. Zucchini Noodles: A lighter option, sautéed zucchini noodles provide a fresh component that complements the heaviness of stuffed shells.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a touch of elegance and balances flavors on your plate.
6. Antipasto Platter: Create an antipasto platter featuring cured meats, olives, and cheeses as a flavorful starter that excites the palate before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stuffed shells with meat can be simple, but a few common mistakes can derail your delicious dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Cooking the Shells Properly: Overcooking or undercooking the jumbo shells can lead to a mushy texture or difficulty in stuffing them. Follow package instructions closely for the best results.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Forgetting to season either the meat sauce or the ricotta filling can leave your dish bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning before assembling.

• Overstuffing the Shells: While it may be tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overstuffed shells can burst during baking. Fill them generously but ensure there’s space for expansion.

• Ignoring Broiling Time: Not broiling at the end can result in cheese that isn’t perfectly melted and golden. A quick broil creates that irresistible bubbly top.

• Using Low-Quality Marinara Sauce: The sauce is key to flavor in stuffed shells with meat. Opt for a high-quality marinara for a richer taste instead of cheap, bland sauces.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat

• You can freeze stuffed shells before or after baking.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• They will keep well for up to 2–3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), checking frequently until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or sauce, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of meat for stuffed shells with meat?

You can absolutely customize your meat choice! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork all work well as alternatives to beef and sausage.

How do I prevent my stuffed shells from sticking together?

To prevent sticking, ensure they are well-coated with sauce before stacking. You can also spread some oil on them while cooling.

What should I serve with stuffed shells?

Stuffed shells pair beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake when you’re ready to serve!

Are there vegetarian options for stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or other vegetables mixed into the ricotta filling for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed shells with meat are not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep, this recipe delivers satisfaction every time. Feel free to customize your filling or sauce based on personal preference—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these cheesy delights!