Meat and Cheese Stuffed Shells recipe
If you are craving a cozy and satisfying dinner, meat and cheese stuffed shells are the perfect comfort food. This recipe brings together tender pasta shells, a rich meat filling, and creamy melted cheese baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. It is the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with warmth and makes everyone excited to sit down for dinner. Whether you are cooking for your family or planning a weekend meal, these stuffed shells never disappoint
What makes this recipe truly special is how well the flavors come together. The savory ground meat, smooth ricotta, and melty mozzarella create a delicious balance in every bite. It is also a great choice when you want something filling that still feels easy to make. You can even prepare it ahead of time and simply bake it when needed. This dish is perfect for any night when you want something comforting and full of flavor.
Why you need this recipe
This recipe is more than just a simple pasta dish. It brings comfort, flavor, and convenience all in one meal. The combination of meat and cheese makes it rich and hearty, while the pasta shells hold everything together in a way that feels satisfying with every bite. If you enjoy meals that are both filling and full of flavor, this one is made for you.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can prepare it ahead of time, freeze leftovers, or double the batch for a gathering. It works well for weeknights, special occasions, or when you just want a home-cooked meal without too much effort. With a few simple steps, you get a dish that looks impressive and tastes even better.
Ingredients
To make your cooking experience easier, here is a simple and clear table of all the ingredients you will need for this delicious meat and cheese stuffed shells recipe, along with the approximate calorie count per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Jumbo pasta shells | 20 to 25 shells | 200 |
| Ground beef | 1 pound | 800 |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup | 400 |
| Mozzarella cheese (shredded) | 2 cups | 640 |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/2 cup | 220 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 small | 40 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Crushed tomatoes | 2 cups | 160 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
Total calories per serving (based on 6 servings): Approximately 450 to 500
How to prepare
Start by cooking the pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook them until they are just tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. Drain them and set aside to cool. In the meantime, heat a little olive oil in a pan. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until soft. Then add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, one beaten egg, half of the shredded mozzarella, and the grated Parmesan. Stir in the cooked meat mixture. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread a layer of crushed tomatoes on the bottom of a baking dish. Carefully stuff each shell with the meat and cheese filling and place them in the dish. Pour the remaining crushed tomatoes over the shells and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella on top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
To make your stuffed shells even better, start by slightly undercooking the pasta. This helps the shells stay firm while baking and prevents them from falling apart. After boiling, rinse them under cool water to stop the cooking and make them easier to handle.
When filling the shells, use a spoon or piping bag to make the process quicker and less messy. Also, do not overfill the shells. A generous spoonful is enough to keep everything in place while baking. If you want extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs to the meat mixture. Lastly, cover the dish with foil for most of the baking time to keep the shells moist, then uncover for the last few minutes to let the cheese melt perfectly.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
To complete your meal, serve these stuffed shells with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also great sides, perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
For toppings, sprinkle fresh basil or chopped parsley over the baked shells right before serving. A light dusting of extra Parmesan adds even more flavor. If you like a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes give a nice kick. You can also drizzle a touch of olive oil on top to bring everything together with a smooth finish.
Conclusion
Meat and cheese stuffed shells are the kind of meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe delivers bold flavor and a rich, creamy texture that feels homemade in the best way. It is a dish you can rely on for busy nights, family dinners, or special gatherings.
Whether you are making it fresh or preparing it ahead of time, these stuffed shells are always a welcome choice. The combination of tender pasta, savory meat, and melty cheese never fails to impress. Once you try it, this recipe will surely become a regular in your kitchen.
