Stuffed Shells with Meat: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe

Stuffed shells with meat are a timeless Italian-American dish, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. These tender pasta shells are filled with a hearty, flavorful meat mixture, nestled in a bed of rich marinara sauce, and topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. In this guide, we provide you with a step-by-step recipe for creating the best stuffed shells with meat. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe ensures perfection every time.

What Are Stuffed Shells with Meat?

Stuffed shells are made using jumbo pasta shells filled with a delicious mixture, typically featuring ricotta cheese, ground meat, and herbs. Baked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with mozzarella, stuffed shells are a warm, gooey, and satisfying dish. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a favorite for all ages.

Ingredients for the Perfect Stuffed Shells

To create an unforgettable dish, quality ingredients are key. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

For the Pasta:

• 1 box jumbo pasta shells (16 ounces)

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Stuffed Shells with Meat

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente, typically 2 minutes less than the package instructions.
• Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Filling

While the pasta cools, prepare the filling:

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
• Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes.
• Add the cooked meat to the cheese mixture and season with salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.

3. Assemble the Dish

Now comes the fun part—stuffing the shells:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each pasta shell with the meat mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish in a single layer.
• Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, making sure they’re well-covered.

4. Add the Cheese Topping

• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the dish.

5. Bake to Perfection

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the stuffed shells cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Shells with Meat

1. Choose the Right Meat

Ground beef is a classic choice, but you can also use Italian sausage, ground turkey, or a combination for added flavor.

2. Use Quality Cheese

Opt for freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan to enhance the dish’s creamy texture and savory flavor.

3. Make It Ahead of Time

Stuffed shells are an excellent make-ahead meal. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

4. Customize the Filling

Add spinach, mushrooms, or chopped herbs to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.

Variations of Stuffed Shells with Meat

1. Spicy Stuffed Shells

Add diced jalapeños or hot Italian sausage to the filling for a kick of heat.

2. Cheesy Vegetarian Version

Replace the meat with sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly option.

3. Alfredo-Style Shells

Swap the marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce to create a rich and decadent dish.

4. Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free.

What to Serve with Stuffed Shells

Stuffed shells pair beautifully with side dishes and accompaniments. Here are a few ideas:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing contrast to the creamy stuffed shells.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, or green beans make a healthy and colorful addition.
• Red Wine: Pair with a robust red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

1. Refrigerating Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Freezing Stuffed Shells

• To freeze, assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

3. Reheating Tips

• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the entire dish at 350°F until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed shells with meat are a crowd-pleaser that combines rich flavors, hearty textures, and cheesy goodness. This dish is easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for feeding a large group or meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for comfort food on a busy night, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

Enjoy every bite of these stuffed shells with meat, and let this recipe become a cherished part of your kitchen repertoire!