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Stuffed Shells recipe with meat magine a dish that combines pasta, ground beef, and melted cheese. That’s what stuffed shells with meat offer. This classic dish is loved by many, filled with a savory ground beef mix. It’s then baked with creamy tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Looking for a satisfying dinner or a dish to impress? These beef-filled stuffed shells will hit the spot. They’re sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.
Key Takeaways
- Stuffed shells with ground beef offer a delicious and hearty Italian-American dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
- This recipe combines the classic flavors of pasta, savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce.
- Stuffed shells are easy to prepare and can be made ahead, making them a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- The combination of tender pasta, juicy beef filling, and melted cheese creates a satisfying and comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
- With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you can easily recreate this beloved Italian-American dish at home.
Introduction to Classic Italian-American Stuffed Shells
The stuffed pasta shells have a rich history in Italian cuisine. They’ve also become a favorite in American kitchens. This dish has won the hearts and taste buds of families across the United States.
Origins of Stuffed Pasta Shells
The stuffed jumbo pasta shells come from Italy’s “conchiglie ripiene.” This dish was filled with a tasty mix and was loved for special meals or cozy dinners. Italian immigrants brought this dish to the United States, where it quickly became a hit.
Why This Dish Became an American Favorite
The stuffed jumbo pasta shells are loved for many reasons. They can be filled with many things, from ground beef and cheese to seafood or veggies. The mix of soft pasta, tasty filling, and sauces pleases many. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and reheat, perfect for any day.
The stuffed pasta shells hold a special place in Italian-American cuisine. They’re a staple at family gatherings, holidays, and cozy meals. This dish has become a classic in American kitchens.
Essential Ingredients for Beef Stuffed Shells
Creating the perfect beef stuffed shells starts with the right ingredients. You’ll need juicy ground beef, flavorful cheese, and herbs. Each part is key to making this classic dish shine.
Pasta Shells
The base of the dish is jumbo pasta shells. Choose high-quality, large shells that can hold the meat filling well. Look for shells that are firm and have a slight ridged texture.
Ground Beef
The heart of the filling is ground beef. Pick a lean, high-quality beef for the best flavor and tenderness. Avoid too fatty or lean cuts to keep the dish balanced.
Cheese Blend
A mix of cheeses is crucial for a creamy filling. Use ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a perfect blend. Ricotta makes it smooth, mozzarella melts well, and Parmesan adds saltiness.
Herbs and Seasonings
To boost the flavors, add fresh herbs and seasonings. Use basil, oregano, garlic, and onion. A bit of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes adds depth and heat.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make your stuffed shells with meat or beef stuffed shells. Selecting and mixing these key components will make your dish full of authentic Italian-American taste.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Jumbo Pasta Shells | 24-30 shells | The foundation of the dish, holding the delicious meat filling. |
| Ground Beef | 1 pound | The main component of the savory filling, providing a rich, meaty flavor. |
| Ricotta Cheese | 1 cup | Adds a creamy, smooth texture to the filling. |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1 cup, shredded | Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy filling. |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup, grated | Provides a savory, salty flavor and helps bind the filling. |
| Fresh Basil | 1/4 cup, chopped | Adds a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor to the filling. |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon | Enhances the Italian-inspired flavors of the dish. |
| Garlic Cloves | 2, minced | Infuses the filling with a savory, aromatic quality. |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | Seasoning the filling to balance the flavors. |
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious stuffed shells with meat or beef stuffed shells dish. By choosing quality ingredients and balancing flavors, you’ll create a true Italian-American masterpiece.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Stuffed Shells Recipe with Meat
Making stuffed shells with ground beef is a fun cooking journey. Let’s go through the steps to make your stuffed shells recipe with meat a hit every time.
Preparing the Pasta Shells
Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells as the package says. Boil them in salted water until they’re just right, then drain and let them cool. This step helps the shells keep their shape while baking.
Creating the Perfect Meat Filling
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned and crumbled. Remove any extra fat, then add minced garlic, diced onions, and herbs and spices. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Once it cools, mix in ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and beaten eggs. This will help hold the stuffed macaroni shells filling together.
Assembly and Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each pasta shell with the meat mixture and place them in the dish.
- Top with more marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the stuffed shells recipe with meat for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Enjoy your homemade stuffed shells with meat hot, topped with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. It’s a tasty Italian-American dish.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells Every Time
Making perfect stuffed pasta shells is a fun challenge. With the right techniques, you can make this classic dish shine. Whether you’re using jumbo shells or the smaller kind, these tips will help you succeed every time.
Start by picking the right pasta. Choose large, jumbo shells that can hold a lot of filling. Make sure not to overboil them, as this can make them too soft and break easily.
- Use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for the filling. This gives the best flavor.
- Add a mix of cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This makes the filling creamy and rich.
- Don’t stuff the shells too much. Leave some room for the filling to expand while baking.
- Make sure the shells are well coated with sauce before baking. This prevents them from drying out or burning.
If you run into problems like shells tearing or filling leaking, don’t worry. Here are some fixes:
- If shells are breaking, try boiling them for a minute or two less. This keeps them firmer.
- If filling is leaking, use a piping bag or spoon to fill the shells carefully. Make sure the opening is sealed.
- To ensure even cooking, rotate the baking dish halfway through baking.
By following these tips, you’ll make stuffed jumbo pasta shells that look great and taste amazing. Enjoy your delicious dish!
Make-Ahead and Storage Guidelines
Stuffed shells with ground beef are perfect for busy days. They’re great for weeknights or meal planning. These shells are both comforting and convenient.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze uncooked shells, follow the recipe but don’t bake them. Wrap them tightly with plastic or foil and freeze for 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking.
For cooked shells, cool them down first. Then, put them in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can reheat frozen cooked shells straight from the freezer.
Reheating Methods
There are easy ways to reheat frozen stuffed shells. Uncooked, thawed shells bake well in the oven until hot and cheesy. Cooked, frozen shells can be reheated in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop.
Oven reheating keeps the texture best. The microwave is quicker for those in a rush.
Meal Prep Suggestions
Make stuffed shells a part of your meal prep. Cook a big batch and portion them out for quick lunches or dinners. Serve with a salad or veggies for a full meal.
With some planning, you can enjoy homemade stuffed shells all week.
FAQ
What are stuffed shells with ground beef?
Stuffed shells with ground beef are a classic dish. They have jumbo pasta shells filled with ground beef, cheese, and herbs. Then, they’re baked in a tasty tomato sauce.
What are the origins of stuffed pasta shells?
Stuffed pasta shells come from Italy. They were filled with cheeses, veggies, or meats. Italian immigrants brought them to the US, where they became a family favorite.
What ingredients are needed to make beef stuffed shells?
You’ll need jumbo pasta shells, ground beef, and ricotta cheese. Mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, herbs, and tomato sauce are also key.
How do I make stuffed shells with ground beef?
First, cook the pasta shells until they’re al dente. Then, mix ground beef, ricotta, and cheeses with eggs and seasonings. Stuff the shells with this mix and place them in a baking dish.
Next, pour tomato sauce over the shells. Bake until the shells are hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What are some tips for making perfect stuffed shells every time?
Choose the right size pasta shells. Make sure the shells don’t tear when filling. Get the meat-to-cheese ratio just right.
Ensure even cooking and use proper storage and reheating for make-ahead meals.
How can I make and store stuffed shells in advance?
You can make stuffed shells ahead of time. Freeze them in a baking dish, covered. When ready, bake them straight from the freezer.
Or, prepare the filling and shells separately. Assemble and bake when you’re ready. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.