The Ultimate Comfort Food Experience
Ever tried stuffed pasta shells that practically hug your taste buds? Imagine creamy ricotta and savory ground beef cradled in tender pasta, all smothered in rich marinara sauce and bubbling cheese. This recipe isn’t just about filling shells; it’s about creating an experience that warms your heart and fills your belly. Let’s just say, it’s the kind of dish that might just steal the spotlight at dinner!
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you whip up these stuffed delights? Here are a few irresistible reasons:
- Easy Cleanup: One baking dish, a few bowls, and that’s it. Who wants a pile of dishes after dinner? Not me!
- Family-Friendly: Kids (and adults!) can’t resist the cheesy goodness. You’ll unlock some serious parenting points with this one.
- Quick and Affordable: Most of us have these ingredients lying around, making this a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Like, bingo!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- Large pasta shells
- Ground beef
- Ricotta cheese
- Marinara sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Egg
- Garlic
- Onion
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the large pasta shells according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, cooked beef mixture, egg, parmesan cheese, and chopped basil (if using).
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, then cover with more marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Make Stuffed Pasta Shells (Overview)
Alright, let’s break this down, shall we? First, you’ll preheat the oven and cook those glorious pasta shells. While they’re bubbling away, sauté your onion and garlic until they’re fragrant and inviting—it’s a good time to appreciate the smell! Next, brown the ground beef and mix it with the ricotta and other goodies. Stuff those shells like a pro, layer them in a baking dish, and bake until bubbly. Oh, and pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! 😉
How to Serve Stuffed Pasta Shells
Want to impress? Serve these colorful stuffed shells on a vibrant plate drizzled with some extra marinara and a sprinkle of fresh basil. You can pair it with a crisp salad — think mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness. The aroma? Divine. You’ll get a waft of cheesiness and tangy goodness each time you dig in. Talk about comfort food with flair!
How to Store Stuffed Pasta Shells
Have leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just cover with cling film or foil. Want to save them for later? You can freeze these beauties for up to 3 months—just make sure they’re well wrapped. When reheating, a quick 25 minutes in the oven will bring them back to life. Easy peasy!
Tips to Make Stuffed Pasta Shells
Here are a few insider tricks to elevate your stuffed shells:
- Season generously: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! The beef needs flavor, too.
- Opt for low-fat cheese: Want a healthier twist? Use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella without sacrificing taste.
- Add veggies: Sneak in some spinach or mushrooms into the stuffing for extra nutrients and texture.
- Let it rest: Giving the dish a few minutes to cool lets the flavors deepen and makes serving easier. Who wants a messy plate, right?
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Switch it up! Go vegan by using lentils, tofu, or a variety of vegetables for the stuffing. Want to make it spicy? Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
1. Can I use different meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken also works great here. Just make sure to season well.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
You bet! Assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead and cover. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
3. How do I freeze leftovers?
Cool completely, then place in airtight containers or freezer bags. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Stuffed Pasta Shells
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the large pasta shells according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, cooked beef mixture, egg, parmesan cheese, and chopped basil (if using).
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, cover with more marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
