Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, stuffed pasta shells are the perfect dish to enjoy with family and friends. This recipe features large pasta shells generously filled with a cheesy mixture and topped with a savory meat sauce. It’s a delightful combination of flavors that is both hearty and easy to prepare. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound ground chuck
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
26 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 cups small curd cottage cheese (4% milk fat)
2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
20 dry jumbo pasta shells (about 7 ounces)
Chopped fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
This stuffed pasta shell recipe is not only delicious but also a wonderful option for meal prep or entertaining guests. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch (3-quart) baking pan with nonstick spray; set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells to al dente according to the package instructions, about 8-9 minutes. After cooking, drain and place them upside down on a baking sheet to dry.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Chuck
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground chuck until cooked through and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off the rendered fat.
Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet with the beef, heat the olive oil and add the diced onion. Cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
Step 5: Simmer the Marinara Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the marinara sauce. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, mix the lightly beaten egg, cottage cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese together.
