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- 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)

Hearty Stuffed Shells & Meatball Bake

Indulge in comfort food with this Hearty Stuffed Shells & Meatball Bake! Packed with rich flavors from ground beef, Italian sausage, and a cheesy filling, this easy dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Follow my step-by-step guide to create a meal that will impress everyone. Don't miss out on the deliciousness—click through for the full recipe and transform your dinner routine today!
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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)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat, then add minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.

        Combine Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese (1 cup), Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Stir until well blended.

          Stuff the Shells: Carefully stuff each cooked shell with the meat mixture, and then spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture into each shell. Place the stuffed shells in a large baking dish.

            Add Marinara Sauce: Pour half of the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

                Serve and Garnish: Take the dish out of the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

                  Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6