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Stuffed Shells with Meat

Delicious Stuffed Shells with Meat for Cozy Dinners

This comforting recipe for Stuffed Shells with Meat combines savory meat, creamy cheese, and marinara sauce for a delightful meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 shells
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 20-24 pieces jumbo pasta shells Large shells are perfect for holding the fillings.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavor of the pasta while it cooks.
For the Meat Filling
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage Offers a hearty, flavorful base.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Adds creaminess and slight sweetness.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Imparts a nutty richness.
  • 1 piece egg Acts as a binder for the filling.
For the Sauce and Seasoning
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Opt for homemade for a fresh twist.
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs Oregano, basil, and thyme work well.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for balancing flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
For Garnish
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley Optional garnish for freshness.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 20-24 jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 9-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking apart until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside to cool.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled meat, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Fill each cooled pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture. Place them upright in a greased baking dish.
  6. Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well-coated.
  7. Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden.
  9. Let the stuffed shells cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1shellCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

These stuffed shells can be prepared in advance and frozen for a quick meal later.

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