Cheesy Meat-Stuffed Shells with Marinara

Make cheesy meat-stuffed shells with marinara, featuring savory beef, ricotta, and mozzarella for the ultimate comfort food dinner.

Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef (you can also use Italian sausage for added flavor)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (for creaminess)
• 1 egg (to bind the filling)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for that cheesy topping)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a savory depth)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (for flavor)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shells: Begin by boiling the jumbo pasta shells in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Make sure not to overcook them, as they will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Meat Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Season it with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This seasoning will infuse the meat with delicious flavors. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, cooked ground beef, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until well blended. This mixture should be creamy and flavorful, making the stuffed shells a delight to eat.
4. Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked shell and carefully fill it with the meat and cheese mixture. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for easier filling. Arrange the filled shells in a greased baking dish.
5. Assemble the Dish: Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve: Once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Variations: Feel free to mix up the filling! Adding spinach, mushrooms, or different cheeses can create a new spin on this classic dish. For a spicy kick, consider using spicy sausage instead of ground beef.
• Serving Size: This recipe serves about 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

Nutritional Information:

One serving of Cheesy Meat-Stuffed Shells typically contains around:

• Calories: 400-500 (depending on portion size and ingredients)
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g

This dish is not only hearty but also provides a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, making it a fulfilling meal for anyone.

Conclusion

Cheesy Meat-Stuffed Shells with Marinara is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is bound to impress.

Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with your friends and family!

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