Delve into the world of classic Italian comfort with this delectable recipe for stuffed shells with ground beef. A perfect blend of cheeses, savory marinara, and well-seasoned beef, each shell is a mouthful of joy. Ideal for family dinners or festive gatherings, this dish not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart with its rich flavors and inviting appearance.
Deliciously Satisfying Stuffed Shells
Creating this dish involves a joyful dance of simmering sauces and blending cheeses, all while the shells are perfectly prepared to be stuffed. With a few simple steps, you can transform basic ingredients into a feast that looks as good as it tastes. So, let’s start crafting this culinary masterpiece that promises a delightful eating experience.
Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells
- Al Dente Pasta: Cook the shells just until they are al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
- Drain Well: Ensure the beef mixture is well-drained to keep the filling from becoming too greasy.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning in the beef mixture according to your taste preferences, especially the crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
- Sauce Coverage: Make sure to cover the bottom of your baking dish with sauce to prevent the shells from sticking.
Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Recipe:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Serving: Serves 6
- Equipment: Skillet, mixing bowl, baking dish
This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for both a weeknight meal and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 24 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Prepare the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent. Incorporate the ground beef, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley. Mix in the cooled beef.
- Assemble the Shells: Spread half the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each shell with the beef and cheese mixture and place in the dish. Top with the remaining sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
A Feast for All Seasons
These stuffed shells with ground beef are more than just a meal; they’re an event that promises satisfaction and comfort with every bite. Whether you’re sitting down to a family dinner or celebrating with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the layers of flavor and the joyful process of making it!
