Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef

Name: Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 ounces); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Craving a comforting meal that brings everyone together? Look no further than stuffed shells with ground beef! These pasta shells are generously filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, herbs, and cheese, then baked in a rich marinara sauce. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

– 12 large pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is calculated for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
4. Add minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. In a bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with ricotta and half of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
7. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
8. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, seam side up.
9. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
10. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
11. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, tofu or lentils can be used for a vegetarian version, while dairy-free cheese can be used for a dairy-free alternative.

Serving and Pairings

Serve stuffed shells with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A light red wine or sparkling water pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the flavors of the marinara sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Stuffed shells can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pasta shells can make them too soft to fill.
Not draining the grease from the beef can make the dish too oily.
Using too much salt can overpower the flavors.
Forgetting to cover the dish while baking can lead to dry cheese.
Not letting the dish rest before serving can result in messy servings.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
Mix in some spinach or kale for added nutrition.
Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
Make ahead and bake just before serving for convenience.

FAQs

Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

What type of sauce is best for stuffed shells?

Marinara sauce is classic, but you can also use Alfredo sauce or a homemade tomato sauce for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Stuffed shells can be frozen before or after baking. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Consider serving with a side salad or garlic bread to complement the richness of the dish.

How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?

Make sure to coat them lightly with oil after cooking and before stuffing to keep them separated.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells with ground beef are a delightful and fulfilling dish that can easily become a family favorite. With their cheesy filling and savory meat, they offer comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for dinner parties or casual weeknights, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.