Cheesy Stuffed Shells Recipe

These Cheesy Stuffed Shells are a classic Italian-American comfort food that’s perfect for a satisfying and flavorful meal! Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture and baked in a rich meat sauce with a generous layer of melted mozzarella. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for a family weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Cheesy: The combination of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and melted mozzarella cheese creates a delicious and satisfying flavor profile that will please everyone at the table.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Fun and Interactive: Stuffing the pasta shells is a fun and engaging activity that the whole family can participate in.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the meat sauce with your favorite vegetables or spices, or use a different type of cheese for the filling or topping.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Jumbo pasta shells: Large pasta shells that are perfect for stuffing with a variety of fillings.
• Ground beef: Adds a hearty and savory base to the meat sauce.
• Onion: Chopped and adds a savory base and sweetness.
• Salt and pepper: Season the meat sauce to perfection.
• Paprika and Italian seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for a classic Italian flavor.
• Minced garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory punch to the meat sauce.
• Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
• Ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to the filling.
• Egg: Binds the ricotta cheese filling together.
• Dried parsley and garlic powder: Adds extra flavor to the ricotta filling.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated and adds a salty and umami flavor to the filling.
• Mozzarella cheese: Shredded and melts beautifully over the top.
• Dried parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain the shells and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and stir in the minced garlic. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is combined and smooth.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Use a spoon to carefully fill the cooked pasta shells with the ricotta cheese mixture. If you’re using a 12-inch cast iron skillet, you can fill about 21 shells. If using a 9×13 inch baking dish, you can fill more shells, depending on their size.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

If you’re using an oven-safe skillet, simply press the filled shells down into the meat sauce in the skillet. If not, transfer the meat sauce to a 9×13 inch baking dish and arrange the filled shells in the sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. If you prefer the pasta and cheese to be less crispy, cover the dish with aluminum foil during baking.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the baking dish from the oven and garnish with dried parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Use a piping bag: For easier filling, you can use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off to fill the pasta shells.
• Make ahead: You can cook the pasta and make the meat sauce and ricotta filling ahead of time. Assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

How to Serve

These Cheesy Stuffed Shells are delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping and sopping up the extra sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cheesy Stuffed Shells are great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can! Other large pasta shells, such as conchiglie or manicotti, would also work well in this recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the ground beef and use a plant-based ground meat substitute or add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, to the sauce.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the dish? Definitely! A pinch of red pepper flakes, dried oregano, or a bay leaf would be delicious additions to the meat sauce.

This Cheesy Stuffed Shells Recipe is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always satisfying. With its rich meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and cheesy topping, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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