These Stuffed Shells with Meat are a delightful blend of flavors, combining ground beef and Italian sausage in a creamy, cheesy filling. Baked in rich marinara sauce, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. You’ll love the satisfying taste and comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of beef, sausage, and cheese creates a rich taste that everyone loves.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
- Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions; it suits all tastes.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and store in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these cheesy stuffed shells!
Tools and Preparation
To make these stuffed shells efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Dish: A 13-inch dish allows you to layer the stuffed shells comfortably while baking.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and browning meat evenly.
- Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all your filling ingredients thoroughly.
- Colander: Helps drain pasta effectively without losing any shells.
Ingredients
These cheesy stuffed shells with ground beef and Italian sausage are baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce, creating the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this easy stuffed shells recipe is loaded with flavor and topped with melted mozzarella for a deliciously satisfying dish!
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3/4 – 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 3/4 – 1 lb ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Filling
- 32 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup cooked spinach, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
For Assembly
- 1 box jumbo shells
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, for serving
How to Make Stuffed Shells with Meat
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you’re done assembling.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
- Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions.
- Drain them well and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the diced bell peppers until soft.
- Add the ground sausage and beef; cook until browned.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer for a few minutes before setting aside.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In a large bowl:
Mix together ricotta cheese, spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 5: Stuff the Shells
Fill each cooked jumbo shell with the ricotta mixture:
Make sure they are well-packed.
Step 6: Assemble
In a 13-inch baking dish:
Spread several spoonfuls of meat sauce on the bottom.
Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce.
Pour remaining meat sauce over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Cover and bake:
Bake for 20 minutes at 350°F.
Remove from oven; sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Increase oven temperature to 375°F; bake an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is melted. Broil briefly for a golden top if desired.
Step 8: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your deliciously satisfying stuffed shells!
How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat
Stuffed shells with meat make a hearty and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Pair with a Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the rich stuffed shells.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complement the flavors beautifully.
Enjoy with Garlic Bread
- Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for scooping up the marinara sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add melted cheese on top for an extra indulgent side that pairs perfectly with the stuffed shells.
Serve with Wine
- Red Wine: A robust red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, enhances the flavors of both the meat and marinara sauce.
- White Wine: For those who prefer white, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc can also be delightful alongside your meal.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan sprinkled on top before serving boosts flavor and presentation.
How to Perfect Stuffed Shells with Meat
To ensure your stuffed shells come out perfect every time, follow these handy tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance flavor; opt for high-quality ground meats and cheeses.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook jumbo shells al dente. They will continue cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
- Pack Shells Tightly: Fill each shell generously for maximum flavor and texture in every bite.
- Layer Sauces Well: Spread some sauce at the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking and keep shells moist.
- Broil for Crispiness: A quick broil at the end of baking creates a bubbly, golden cheese topping that’s irresistible.
Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Shells with Meat
When serving stuffed shells with meat, pairing them with the right side dishes enhances your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provides healthy balance to your meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, making it a great accompaniment.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, olives, and cheeses creates a flavorful starter before diving into the main dish.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto offers a luxurious side that complements the hearty stuffed shells well.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and garlic alongside your pasta dish.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with savory stuffed shells, providing a nutritious alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making stuffed shells with meat can be a delightful experience, but common mistakes can turn your dish into a disaster. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong pasta: Make sure to use jumbo shells as they hold the filling well. Regular pasta won’t work for this recipe.
- Overcooking the shells: Cook the shells until al dente. They will continue to cook in the oven, and overcooked shells can become mushy.
- Not seasoning enough: Filling and sauce should be well-seasoned. Taste both before assembling and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Skipping the broil: Broiling at the end gives your dish that golden, bubbly cheese topping. Don’t skip this step for optimal results!
- Rushing the cooling time: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. This helps flavors meld and makes serving easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Stuffed Shells with Meat
- Freeze stuffed shells before baking for best results.
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil; they will last up to 3 months.
Reheating Stuffed Shells with Meat
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a bit of water or sauce, cover, and heat on low until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about stuffed shells with meat:
Can I substitute different meats in Stuffed Shells with Meat?
Yes! You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage for a lighter option.
How do I know when my stuffed shells are done baking?
The stuffed shells are done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, usually after around 35 minutes in the oven.
Can I make Stuffed Shells with Meat ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer before baking.
What sauces pair well with Stuffed Shells with Meat?
Aside from marinara, you can try Alfredo sauce or a creamy garlic sauce for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent my stuffed shells from falling apart?
Ensure you cook the shells just right—al dente—and avoid overstuffing them.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed shells with meat offer a comforting blend of flavors that make them perfect for any occasion. They are not only easy to prepare but also versatile; you can customize your filling and sauces based on what you have on hand. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!
Stuffed Shells with Meat
Stuffed Shells with Meat is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef and Italian sausage, enveloped in a creamy ricotta filling. Baked in a luscious marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, these cheesy jumbo shells are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating this hearty dish. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, these stuffed shells are sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 32 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- Jumbo pasta shells
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook jumbo shells according to package instructions and drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté diced bell peppers until soft. Add ground beef and sausage; cook until browned. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, eggs, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and salt.
- Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture and arrange them in a baking dish over some meat sauce.
- Pour remaining meat sauce on top and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, increase temperature to 375°F (190°C), and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
