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Stuffed Shells with Meat

Delicious Stuffed Shells with Meat for Cozy Nights In

Enjoy these Stuffed Shells with Meat, a comforting dish that blends hearty flavors and is perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Beef Recipes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 20-24 pieces jumbo pasta shells

For the Meat Filling

  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage Choose Italian sausage for extra flavor
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 piece egg Acts as a binder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs Oregano, basil, and thyme
  • salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups marinara sauce

For Garnish

  • fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, gently add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
  • While the pasta cools, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat and let it cool.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled meat with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Add the dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well incorporated.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
  • Fill the cooled pasta shells with the meat and cheese mixture and place in a greased baking dish.
  • Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
  • Sprinkle additional mozzarella on top and cover loosely with foil.
  • Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden.
  • Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat as needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 830mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 15mg
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Recipes, hearty meals, pasta dishes, Stuffed Shells with Meat
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