Delicious Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Recipe

 

Quick Overview

If you are searching for a comforting and hearty meal, look no further than the best stuffed shells with ground beef. This classic Italian-American dish is a favorite among families for its rich flavors and satisfying textures. These pasta shells are generously filled with seasoned ground beef and creamy cheese, then baked until bubbly. The combination of savory meat sauce and melted cheese creates a delightful experience in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Ingredient Breakdown

Jumbo Pasta Shells

These large pasta shells serve as the vessel for your delicious filling. You will need about 20 to 25 jumbo shells for this recipe. They provide ample space to hold the savory ingredients inside.

Ground Beef

Using about one pound of ground beef adds protein and richness to your dish. Opt for lean beef to keep it healthier while still delivering flavor through seasoning.

Ricotta Cheese

You will require 15 ounces of ricotta cheese for creaminess and texture. This cheese contributes a mild flavor and helps bind the filling together.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

A generous two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese brings gooeyness to the dish when baked. It melts beautifully on top of the stuffed shells.

Marinara Sauce

For the base sauce, about three cups of marinara sauce enhances flavor throughout the dish. Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce for optimal taste.

Parmesan Cheese

A half cup of grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses well. Sprinkle it on top before baking for added crunch.

Fresh Basil

A small handful of fresh basil leaves brightens up the dish and adds freshness. Chop finely before mixing it into your filling or using it as a garnish.

Step By Step Recipe: Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all necessary ingredients on your kitchen counter. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you finish preparing your stuffed shells. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt before cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.

Cook the Beef Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add one pound of ground beef. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with a spatula—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary and season with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh basil for extra flavor.

Mix Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese with one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt, pepper, and a bit more chopped basil into this mixture for taste. Stir until well combined; this will be your creamy filling.

Fill the Pasta Shells

Once cooked, drain the jumbo pasta shells carefully under cold water to cool them slightly. Take each shell and fill it generously with the meat mixture using a spoon or piping bag if preferred. Place each filled shell face up in a greased baking dish as you go along.

Assemble The Dish

Pour about two cups of marinara sauce evenly over the filled pasta shells in the baking dish. Make sure all shells are covered adequately to keep them moist during baking. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top along with additional grated Parmesan if desired.

Bake Until Golden

Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture while baking initially. Place it into your preheated oven for 25 minutes covered; then remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serve Hot

Serve your best stuffed shells with ground beef hot from the oven while garnishing with more fresh basil if desired. Pair it alongside garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal experience everyone will enjoy.

Store Leftovers Properly

If you have leftovers after serving dinner, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator—this keeps them fresh for up to three days.

Reheat Safely

To reheat leftovers effectively, use an oven set at 350°F (175°C) covered in foil until heated through completely—this ensures even heating without drying out any part of your delicious stuffed shells.

By following these steps closely along with our ingredient breakdown guide above, you’ll find making these best stuffed shells filled with ground beef not only easy but highly rewarding! Enjoy creating this delightful meal that everyone can savor together!

Mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when preparing the best stuffed shells with ground beef is overcooking the pasta. This can lead to shells that fall apart during filling and baking. Cook the shells al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

Another frequent error is skimping on seasoning. Ground beef can be bland without the right herbs and spices, so make sure to season generously. Don’t forget to taste your filling before stuffing the shells; this ensures the flavor is just right.

Using too much filling can also be a problem. While it’s tempting to overstuff each shell, doing so can cause them to break or overflow during baking. Aim for a moderate amount of filling in each shell for a balanced bite.

Failing to cover the dish while baking is another mistake. Without proper coverage, the stuffed shells may dry out. Use foil for part of the baking time and remove it towards the end for a bubbly top.

Lastly, not letting the dish rest after baking can ruin its presentation and taste. Allowing it to sit for about 10 minutes helps flavors meld together and makes serving easier.

Tips and tricks

When making the best stuffed shells with ground beef, start by preparing your ingredients beforehand. Chop any vegetables you want to include, such as spinach or onions, and have your spices ready. This organization streamlines your cooking process and ensures everything comes together smoothly.

Consider incorporating ricotta cheese into your filling mixture for creaminess. Combine it with ground beef and other ingredients like mozzarella for a rich texture that adds depth to each bite. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.

Don’t forget about sauce! A good marinara or homemade tomato sauce elevates your dish significantly. Pour some sauce into the bottom of your baking dish before adding stuffed shells, which prevents them from sticking and keeps them moist during cooking.

If you want additional flavor, try adding garlic or onion powder directly into your meat mixture. These ingredients enhance overall taste without overwhelming your dish. Always remember that fresh herbs like basil or parsley can bring brightness to your stuffed shells.

Lastly, experiment with toppings after baking. Adding grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs on top before serving makes for an appealing presentation and adds flavor complexity that everyone will enjoy.

Suggestions for Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

When assembling your best stuffed shells with ground beef, consider balancing flavors by adding vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers into the filling mix. These veggies provide extra nutrients while enhancing depth in flavor.

For those who love spice, consider mixing some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or beef mixture. This will add a delightful kick without overpowering other flavors in your dish.

If you’re short on time but still want delicious stuffed shells, prepare them in advance and freeze them uncooked. You can then bake them straight from frozen when you’re ready; just increase baking time accordingly for perfect results.

Using different shapes of pasta can be fun too! Instead of traditional shells, try jumbo rigatoni or conchiglie for a new twist on this classic recipe while still achieving great taste.

Lastly, pair your best stuffed shells with ground beef with sides like garlic bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

FAQs

What is the best type of ground beef to use for stuffed shells?

The best type of ground beef for stuffed shells is typically 80/20 (meat-to-fat ratio). This blend ensures enough fat content for flavor while remaining lean enough not to be greasy after cooking. You could also opt for leaner variations if preferred but ensure there’s enough fat to keep it juicy when baked.

Can I prepare stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare best stuffed shells with ground beef ahead of time by assembling them in advance and storing them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to bake. If refrigerated, aim to use them within 24 hours; if frozen, ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

How long should I bake my stuffed shells?

Typically, you should bake best stuffed shells with ground beef at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes when covered with foil. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes if you’d like a bubbly top layer of cheese or sauce finish on top!

Can I use other proteins instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or even plant-based meat alternatives in your best stuffed shells recipe depending on dietary preferences or restrictions. Adjust seasoning appropriately based on protein choice for optimal flavor balance!

What sauces pair well with stuffed shells?

Marinara is a classic choice that works beautifully with best stuffed shells filled with ground beef; however, Alfredo sauce offers creamy richness if you’re looking for something different! Feel free also to experiment by mixing both sauces together as well!

How do I store leftovers properly?

Store leftover best stuffed shells with ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they’ll last up to three days! To reheat effectively without drying out, consider covering them loosely with foil during reheating in an oven set at low heat until warmed through thoroughly.

Summary

To create delicious best stuffed shells with ground beef successfully, avoid common mistakes such as overcooking pasta and skimping on seasoning. Incorporate useful tips like prepping ingredients ahead of time and experimenting with different cheeses while ensuring proper storage methods afterward! With thoughtful suggestions on flavors and pairing options guiding you along this culinary journey—enjoy every satisfying bite!

 

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