Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells

introduction

Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells are a delicious and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cheeses, and seasonings, these large pasta shells are not only satisfying but also fun to eat. Baked to golden perfection with a rich pasta sauce, they are sure to delight everyone at the table.

why make this recipe

Making Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells is a great idea for several reasons. First, they are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting and filling. Second, it allows you to be creative with the fillings, catering to your taste preferences. Lastly, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for gatherings, family get-togethers, or even meal prep for the week.

how to make Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells

Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups pasta sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
4. In a bowl, combine cooked beef, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef mixture.
6. Spread 1 cup of pasta sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
7. Place stuffed shells in the dish and cover with the remaining sauce.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove foil, sprinkle with extra mozzarella, and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

how to serve Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells

Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells can be served right from the baking dish. You can pair them with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and a touch of color.

how to store Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells

To store leftovers, place the Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them before baking. Wrap the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze. They can be reheated straight from the freezer or after thawing in the fridge overnight.

tips to make Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells

• Choose large, sturdy jumbo shells for easy stuffing.
• Don’t overcook the pasta shells, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Feel free to mix in other ingredients, like sautéed vegetables or different cheeses, to customize the filling.
• For an extra flavor boost, add garlic or onion powder to the meat mixture.

variation

You can make vegetarian Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells by replacing the ground beef with chopped spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables. For a creamier texture, you can also add more ricotta cheese and omit the egg.

FAQs

Can I make these shells in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells a day ahead. Just assemble them and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

What sauces can I use instead of pasta sauce?
You can use Alfredo sauce or pesto sauce for a different flavor profile.

Can I use other types of meat?
Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage can be used as alternatives to ground beef, depending on your preference.

Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells

A delicious and hearty dish filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cheeses, and seasonings, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 20 pieces jumbo pasta shells Choose large, sturdy shells for easy stuffing.
• 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
• 2 cups pasta sauce You can use Alfredo or pesto sauce for variation.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese For a creamier texture, you can add more ricotta and omit the egg.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Sprinkle additional mozzarella for a bubbly topping.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a rich flavor to the filling.
• 1 piece egg Helps bind the filling together.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• to taste Salt and pepper

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
4. In a bowl, combine cooked beef, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef mixture.

Baking

1. Spread 1 cup of pasta sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Place stuffed shells in the dish and cover with the remaining sauce.
3. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
4. Remove foil, sprinkle with extra mozzarella, and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
5. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Shells can be served with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For added flavor, sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. To store leftovers, place in an airtight container; can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen before baking.