Stuffed Pasta Shells

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this delicious and comforting dish! You won’t want to miss out on trying these Stuffed Pasta Shells filled with savory cheeses and rich tomato sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 box jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 jar marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until meat is browned and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Add cooked beef mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese and beef mixture and place in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter option.

• Can I freeze the Stuffed Pasta Shells?

Yes, you can freeze the shells before baking. Simply thaw and bake according to instructions when ready to eat.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your preferences.

• How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can omit the ground beef and add more vegetables or meatless crumbles for a vegetarian version.

• What can I serve with Stuffed Pasta Shells?

Garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables are great options to serve alongside this dish.

Helpful tips:

• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for a burst of flavor.
• Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the cheese mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Use your favorite marinara sauce for a personalized touch.
• Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick and easy meal later on.

Expert Secrets:

• Make sure to slightly undercook the pasta shells as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the dish to your taste preferences.
• For a creamier filling, add a dollop of cream cheese to the cheese mixture.
• For a crispy top, broil the stuffed shells for a few minutes after baking.