Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
Introduction
Stuffed shells are a classic Italian dish that never fails to impress. The combination of tender pasta shells filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, cheese, and herbs is simply irresistible. This recipe for the best stuffed shells with ground beef is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal, these stuffed shells are the perfect choice.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 24 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease. Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
Meanwhile, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven later. Drain the cooked shells and set them aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the bowl and mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Take each cooked pasta shell and fill it with a generous amount of the cheese and ground beef mixture. Place the filled shell in the baking dish, and continue filling the remaining shells until the dish is full.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover them completely. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Allow the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
This recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with cooked spinach or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Chicken or Turkey: Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped jalapenos for a spicier version.
Tips
- Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Don’t overstuff the shells, as they may burst during baking. Fill them generously but leave some room for the filling to expand.
- Use a good quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own homemade marinara.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
These best stuffed shells with ground beef are a crowd-pleasing dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The combination of tender pasta shells, flavorful ground beef, and gooey melted cheese is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to indulge in some comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking them. Simply assemble the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions as mentioned in the recipe.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can use different types of cheese according to your preference. Some popular options include fontina, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
3. Can I make the stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator, let them come to room temperature, and then bake according to the instructions.
4. Can I use a different type of meat?
Definitely! Ground pork, chicken, or even a combination of different meats can be used instead of ground beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and ensure the meat reaches the appropriate internal temperature for safety.
5. Can I use a different sauce?
Yes, you can experiment with different sauces to change up the flavor. Try using a creamy Alfredo sauce or a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a twist on the classic marinara.
