If you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal, my Hearty Stuffed Shells & Meatball Bake is the answer! This dish layers tender pasta shells with a rich filling of ground beef, Italian sausage, and cheesy goodness. It’s straightforward to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Follow me as I guide you through each step to create this delicious favorite that everyone will love. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 20 large pasta shells
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (divided)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Gathering your ingredients is key to making this dish fun and easy. Start with 20 large pasta shells. You want them to be big enough to hold all the tasty stuff. Next, grab 1 pound of lean ground beef and 1/2 pound of Italian sausage. These two meats will give the dish a hearty flavor.
You’ll also need 1 jar of marinara sauce. This sauce is great for adding moisture and flavor. For a creamy touch, get 1 cup of ricotta cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Remember to set aside some mozzarella for topping later.
Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a nice salty flavor. You will need 1 large egg to help bind the cheese mix together. Don’t forget 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil for that Italian flair. Lastly, season with salt and pepper to your taste and chop some fresh parsley for garnish.
Recommended Equipment
– Large pot for boiling
– Skillet for browning meat
– Mixing bowl
– Baking dish
– Aluminum foil
Having the right tools makes cooking easier. Use a large pot to boil your pasta shells. A skillet will help you brown the ground beef and Italian sausage perfectly. A mixing bowl is great for combining your cheese and egg.
For baking, you’ll need a baking dish to hold all those stuffed shells. Finally, grab some aluminum foil to keep your dish nice and cozy in the oven.
For the full recipe, check out the details above!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Cook pasta shells until al dente.
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt to the water. This adds flavor to the pasta. Once the water boils, add the pasta shells. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes. You want them firm but not hard. When done, drain the shells and let them cool.
Cooking the Meat
– Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage in a skillet.
– Add spices and garlic after draining excess fat.
In a skillet, heat it on medium. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until they turn brown. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any extra fat. After this, add garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes. This step makes the meat tasty.
Stuffing the Shells
– Mix cheeses and egg in a bowl.
– Fill the cooked shells with the meat and cheese mixture.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Stir until all blends well. Now, take each cooled shell. Stuff it with the meat mixture first. Then, add a spoonful of the cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a large baking dish.
Baking
– Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
– Cover and bake in the oven for the specified time.
Take half of your marinara sauce. Pour it over the stuffed shells. Make sure they’re well coated. Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and add more mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for another 10-15 minutes. You want it bubbly and golden.
For the full recipe, check the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To avoid breaking pasta shells while stuffing, cook them just until al dente. This means they should be firm enough to hold their shape. After cooking, let them cool slightly before handling. Gently stuff each shell without forcing it. If you season at each stage, your dish will taste much better. Season the meat, cheese, and sauce. This brings out all the flavors.
Cheese Variations
If you want to change up the cheese, try using cottage cheese instead of ricotta. You can also use provolone or gouda for a twist on mozzarella. For even more creaminess, add cream cheese to your cheese mix. It makes the stuffing richer and smoother.
Serving Suggestions
Hearty stuffed shells pair well with garlic bread or a fresh salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing works great. For wine lovers, a medium-bodied red like Chianti complements this dish nicely. It enhances the flavors without overpowering them. You can find the full recipe for more details on how to create this delicious meal.
Variations
Vegetarian Version
For a vegetarian take, swap meat for a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils. This keeps the dish hearty and satisfying. Use a variety of colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can also use plant-based cheeses for that creamy texture. Try cashew cheese or almond-based cheese for a rich flavor.
Additional Flavor Options
You can boost flavors by adding spinach or other greens to the cheese mix. This adds nutrition and a nice color. Want some heat? Include crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to match your taste.
Stuffing Alternatives
Change things up by using different pasta shapes like cannelloni or manicotti. This gives a fun twist to your dish. You can also incorporate different meats, like chicken or turkey, if you want to explore new flavors. Each option brings a unique taste, making it easy to enjoy this recipe time and again. For the full recipe, be sure to check back!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Hearty Stuffed Shells & Meatball Bake fresh, follow these tips:
– Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container. They last up to 3 days in the fridge.
– Freeze: For longer storage, use a freezer-safe container. This dish can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
– Label and Date: Always label containers with the date. This helps you track freshness.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your leftovers without drying them out, use these methods:
– Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in the oven covered with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes.
– Microwave Method: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, checking often.
– Adding Moisture: If the dish seems dry, add a splash of marinara sauce or water before reheating. This keeps it nice and moist.
FAQs
Can I prepare Hearty Stuffed Shells & Meatball Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe steps, then cover the dish with foil. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes meal prep easy and saves time on busy days.
What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
If you want a change from marinara, try using Alfredo sauce or pesto. Both options add a unique flavor twist. You can even make a homemade tomato sauce with fresh tomatoes and herbs for a fresh taste.
How do I prevent stuffed shells from sticking to the baking dish?
To prevent sticking, lightly grease your baking dish with oil or cooking spray. You can also spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of the dish before adding the stuffed shells. This adds flavor and keeps them from sticking.
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Each meat will add a different flavor profile. If you want a vegetarian option, use a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils instead of meat.
In this blog post, I shared a detailed guide on making Hearty Stuffed Shells & Meatball Bake. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, variations, storage, and answered common questions. Cooking can be fun and easy with the right techniques. Remember, you can customize this dish to suit your taste. Enjoy making it your own, whether with meat, veggies, or different cheeses. Happy cooking!
