Introduction
Indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal with this delicious recipe for stuffed jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich cheese mixture and topped with a savory meat sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that combines robust flavors with creamy textures.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound ground chuck
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
1 large egg
1 cup small curd cottage cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
24 jumbo pasta shells
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Enjoy this delightful stuffed shell dish that combines simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. Your family and friends will be sure to ask for seconds!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chuck until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the marinara sauce, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Cook the Pasta Shells
While the sauce is simmering, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set them aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the egg. Add the cottage cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and the grated Parmesan cheese; mix until well combined.
Assemble the Stuffed Shells
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the top.
Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the assembled stuffed shells before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding extra time if necessary.
Cook techniques
Prepare the Meat Sauce
In this technique, you will brown the ground chuck and then add aromatics like onion and garlic before incorporating marinara sauce. This step is crucial for building flavor.
Cook the Pasta Shells
Cooking the jumbo pasta shells until al dente is essential as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and cool them slightly to make the stuffing process easier.
Prepare the Cheese Filling
Mixing the egg, cottage cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy and flavorful filling for the shells. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for an even distribution of flavor.
Assemble the Stuffed Shells
Layering the meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish and then filling the pasta shells with the cheese mixture ensures that the shells are moist and flavorful. Topping with remaining sauce and cheese adds a delicious crust.
Bake
Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil traps steam and helps the cheese melt evenly. Removing the foil allows the top to brown and become bubbly, enhancing the dish’s texture.
Serve
Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish, elevating its presentation and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative if you prefer a lighter option.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
You may substitute ricotta cheese or a cream cheese blend for a different texture and flavor.
Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked shells. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn, and bake them directly from frozen, adjusting the baking time as necessary.
Conclusion
This delicious recipe for stuffed jumbo shells combines rich flavors with a creamy cheese filling, making it a perfect comfort dish for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The mix of ground chuck, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses creates a hearty meal that is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Garnished with fresh herbs, it not only tastes great but also looks inviting.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Stuffed Shells
Replace the ground chuck with sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers for a healthier, vegetarian option.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Use shredded cooked chicken mixed with buffalo sauce instead of ground chuck for a spicy twist on the classic recipe.
Pesto Marinara Sauce
Mix store-bought or homemade pesto with the marinara sauce for an extra layer of flavor in your stuffed shells.
Seafood Stuffed Shells
Incorporate shrimp or crabmeat into the cheese filling for a luxurious seafood variation.
Mexican Inspired Stuffed Shells
Add taco seasoning to the ground chuck, and use salsa in place of marinara for a Mexican twist, topped with cheddar cheese.
Breakfast Stuffed Shells
Use scrambled eggs, cooked bacon or sausage, and cheese as a filling for a hearty breakfast alternative.
Lasagna-Style Stuffed Shells
Layer marinara sauce, cottage cheese, and mozzarella to give the shells a lasagna flavor profile, perfect for pasta lovers.
Caprese Stuffed Shells
Fill shells with a mixture of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes, and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a fresh and flavorful dish.
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Swap out cottage cheese for ricotta and add cooked spinach for a deliciously creamy and nutritious filling.
