Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells

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Cheesy stuffed pasta shells topped with marinara sauce and cheese
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Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells

Introduction

Cheesy stuffed pasta shells are a comforting and delicious dish enjoyed by many. They are filled with a rich mixture of cheeses and meat, all baked in marinara sauce. This meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to make. Cheesy stuffed pasta shells are great for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for lunch the next day. They combine simple ingredients that are often found in most kitchens, making them a favorite for busy weeknights.

How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells

Making cheesy stuffed pasta shells is straightforward and fun! Gather your ingredients and follow the steps below to create this delightful meal.

Ingredients:

  • 12 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Boil the pasta shells until just al dente. Rinse with cool water and set them aside.
  2. In a skillet, brown the meat with onion and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Let cool slightly, then mix in ricotta, half the mozzarella, and parmesan cheese.
  3. Fill each shell with the beef-cheese mixture. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, then arrange the shells over it.
  4. Top with the remaining marinara and shredded mozzarella. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  5. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells

Serve cheesy stuffed pasta shells warm and enjoy them with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad. The flavors are best when shared with family and friends!

How to Store Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells

To store any leftovers, place the cheesy stuffed pasta shells in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw and reheat them properly before serving.

Tips to Make Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells

  • For extra flavor, add some spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture.
  • If you want a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the meat.
  • Feel free to mix up the cheeses. Adding some cheddar or gouda can give a nice twist to the flavor!

Variation

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or chopped spinach in the cheese mixture.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use different types of pasta?
A1: While jumbo shells are traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like cannelloni or even lasagna noodles. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat.

Q3: How can I make it gluten-free?
A3: Use gluten-free pasta shells and check that your marinara sauce and cheeses are also gluten-free.

Now you’re ready to prepare and enjoy delicious cheesy stuffed pasta shells! Happy cooking!

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Cheesy Stuffed Pasta Shells

  • Author: olivia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian (if meat is omitted)
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Description

A comforting and delicious dish with jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of cheeses and meat, baked in marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Boil the pasta shells until just al dente. Rinse with cool water and set them aside.
  2. In a skillet, brown the meat with onion and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Let cool slightly, then mix in ricotta, half the mozzarella, and parmesan cheese.
  3. Fill each shell with the beef-cheese mixture. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, then arrange the shells over it.
  4. Top with the remaining marinara and shredded mozzarella. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  5. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture. For heat, add red pepper flakes to the meat.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: pasta, cheesy, stuffed shells, Italian, comfort food, family dinner

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