Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef
Introduction
Welcome to this delicious recipe for Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will impress your guests. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 24 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped parsley, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
5. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef and cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell. Place the filled shells in the greased baking dish.
6. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed pasta shells.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
8. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top of the shells. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Variations
There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
– Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with cooked spinach, mushrooms, or a combination of your favorite vegetables.
– Spicy Twist: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the beef and cheese mixture for an extra kick.
– Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Gouda, or fontina, to create a unique flavor profile.
– Italian Sausage: Replace the ground beef with Italian sausage for a more robust and flavorful filling.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef turn out perfectly:
– Be sure to cook the pasta shells until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
– Use a piping bag or a spoon to fill the shells with the beef and cheese mixture for easier handling.
– Don’t skip the step of greasing the baking dish, as it will prevent the shells from sticking.
– Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Conclusion
Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef is a crowd-pleasing dish that is both satisfying and delicious. The combination of tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, and melted cheese creates a comforting and hearty meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So, don your apron and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italian-inspired goodness!
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed pasta shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to bake. Just make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil to prevent drying out.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef freezes well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef pairs well with a side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or sautéed vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a crusty baguette for mopping up the delicious sauce.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: While jumbo pasta shells are traditional for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with different pasta shapes. Manicotti tubes or cannelloni would work well as substitutes.
