Every time I make Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Shells Delight, it brings back sweet memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. I can still hear my kids’ joyful chatter as they dug into these delightful stuffed shells. Honestly, there’s something magical about the way this dish fills the house with warmth and a tantalizing aroma that just pulls everyone together. If you’re looking for a recipe that not only satisfies hunger but also nurtures the soul, look no further! Trust me, once you experience the joy of making—and eating—these cheesy beef-stuffed shells, they’ll quickly become a family favorite.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making this scrumptious dish. I can almost guarantee that your family will be asking for seconds, just like mine!
How to make Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Shells Delight
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef: The star of the show! It provides a hearty foundation for the stuffing. You could swap it for turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option.
- 12 large pasta shells: These little pockets will welcome all the cheesy goodness inside. Make sure to choose the big ones for proper stuffing.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Store-bought is perfectly fine, but feel free to use homemade if you have some on hand! It adds rich flavor to the dish.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and smooth, ricotta brings a wonderful texture to the filling.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This melts beautifully and adds that cheesy, gooey goodness we all crave.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a slightly nutty flavor that enriches the filling.
- 1 egg: This helps bind everything together and gives a lovely richness to the mixture.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Because who doesn’t love the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen?
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs will take the flavor up a notch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always essential for enhancing flavors.
- Fresh basil for garnish: Just to make it look pretty; it adds a burst of freshness.
Cooking Steps:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Trust me, this is key to getting that perfect bubbly cheese on top!
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Boil a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, carefully add the pasta shells and cook them for about 8-10 minutes until they’re al dente. I like to set a timer to avoid overcooking!
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Once the shells are cooked, drain them gently and set them aside to cool while you get started on the filling.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s nicely browned. It’s okay to drain any excess fat to keep it lighter.
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Now, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for another minute until you can really smell that delicious aroma.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, the egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it all well until it’s creamy and smooth. It should look inviting!
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Next, gently fold the cooked ground beef mixture into the ricotta mix until everything is fully combined. You want it to be cohesive but be careful not to over-mix.
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Time to stuff those pasta shells! Grab a spoon and generously fill each shell with the cheesy beef filling. It’s okay to be a little generous here; we like them overstuffed!
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Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Then place the stuffed shells open side up. This ensures the sauce seeps into the shells as they bake.
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Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, just like a warm blanket of cheese!
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Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
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After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!
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Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. I can’t wait for you to taste this!
Why I Love Making This Dish: Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Shells Delight is special to me because it symbolizes comfort and family gatherings. It’s also surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a great go-to for weeknight dinners. I often make it when I want to impress my family without spending all day in the kitchen.
What You’ll Need: You’ll need basic kitchen tools like a pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for browning the meat, and a baking dish. A large spoon and mixing bowl are essential too.
Tips for Perfect Results:
- For a creamier filling, I sometimes add an extra scoop of ricotta.
- If your family loves spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes! A little kick won’t hurt!
Serving Suggestions and Sides: I always love to serve these stuffed shells with a fresh green salad and garlic bread on the side. The light crunch of salad pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese. A glass of red wine also makes for an adult accompaniment, if that’s your kind of thing!
Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a rarity in my household!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven for that fresh-baked taste, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
FAQ Section: Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute if you want a lighter option. Just remember, lean meats can be a bit drier, so adding extra cheese or sauce can help.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells? Definitely! I like to make a double batch and freeze one for another busy night. Just assemble them but don’t bake. Store in an airtight container, and they should be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw and bake as directed!
I can’t eat cheese. What can I do? If cheese isn’t your thing, you can substitute with dairy-free alternatives, or skip the cheese filling entirely and stuff them with sautéed veggies!
This dish has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! It’s straightforward, fulfilling, and always elicits smiles at the dinner table. Please let me know how it turns out when you make it, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time. Happy cooking!