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.
Step 7: Layer the Meat Sauce
Pour about three-quarters of the meat sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 8: Stuff the Pasta Shells
Stuff each shell with 1 rounded tablespoon of the cheese mixture and arrange them on top of the meat sauce, open-side up. Spoon the remaining meat sauce between the shells but not directly on top of them.
Step 9: Bake the Dish
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the shells. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
Notes
Tip 1: Sauce Consistency
Adjust the simmering time of the marinara sauce based on desired thickness; longer simmering yields a thicker sauce.
Tip 2: Cheese Variations
Feel free to mix different cheeses into the cheese filling for added flavor, such as ricotta or provolone.
Tip 3: Fresh Herbs
Incorporate fresh herbs such as oregano or parsley into the cheese mixture for an enhanced flavor profile.
Tip 4: Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; reheat before serving.
Tip 5: Freezing Instructions
This dish can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before, cover tightly, and bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Cook techniques
Prepping the Ingredients
Ensure all your ingredients are ready before you start cooking. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and shred the mozzarella cheese to save time during the cooking process.
Cooking the Pasta
Boil the pasta shells until al dente, which means they should be cooked but still firm to the bite. This prevents them from becoming mushy when baked.
Browning the Meat
Cook the ground chuck until it’s no longer pink to ensure that it’s safely cooked. Drain the fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
Sautéing Vegetables
Cook the diced onion until translucent and fragrant. Adding garlic just before the marinara sauce enhances its flavor without burning the garlic.
Simmering the Sauce
Allow the marinara sauce to simmer uncovered to thicken the sauce and deepen its flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
Mixing Cheese Filling
Combine the cottage cheese, beaten egg, and shredded mozzarella and Parmesan in a bowl. This mixture will provide a creamy interior for the stuffed shells.
Layering the Dish
Spread meat sauce in the baking dish before adding shells. This prevents them from sticking and adds flavor from the bottom.
Stuffing the Shells
Fill each pasta shell generously with the cheese mixture. A rounded tablespoon ensures a good amount of filling without overflowing.
Baking Covered
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap steam, helping the shells cook evenly without drying out.
Finishing Touch
Remove the foil near the end of cooking to allow the cheese to melt and bubble, creating a delicious golden crust.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative if you prefer.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
What if I don’t have jumbo pasta shells?
If you can’t find jumbo shells, you can use other pasta shapes, like manicotti, or even zucchini slices for a low-carb option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled shells before baking. Just cover well and bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.
What can I use as a substitute for marinara sauce?
You can use any tomato-based sauce, such as spaghetti sauce or a homemade tomato sauce.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can skip the meat and add more vegetables to the sauce or use a meat substitute to keep it hearty and flavorful.
Conclusion
This stuffed pasta shells recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the comforting flavors of ground chuck, marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, these shells are not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. The combination of melted mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top makes for a delightful crust, while the fresh basil adds a touch of brightness to every bite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable-Stuffed Shells
Swap the ground chuck for a mix of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini for a vegetarian delight that retains all the cheesy goodness.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
Use shredded cooked chicken mixed with buffalo sauce and cream cheese for a spicy twist on the original recipe.
Mexican-Inspired Shells
Incorporate taco seasoning into the ground beef mixture and layer with salsa and Mexican cheeses, then top with avocado and cilantro after baking.
Seafood Stuffed Shells
Create a seafood version by filling the shells with a mixture of crab, shrimp, and ricotta cheese, then top with a white sauce before baking.
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Shells
Combine spinach, artichokes, and a blend of ricotta and cream cheeses for a rich and creamy filling that gives a nod to the classic dip.
Meatball-Stuffed Shells
Make mini meatballs to stuff inside the shells along with marinara sauce for an extra meat boost in every bite.
Pesto Chicken Shells
Mix shredded chicken with pesto and cream cheese for an aromatic filling that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce and cheese topping.
