why make this recipe
Stuffed Jumbo Shells are a delicious and hearty meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe combines rich flavors and creamy textures that make it a favorite among both kids and adults. Using big pasta shells filled with a savory meat and cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, it is comfort food at its best. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate vegetables like spinach into your meal without anyone noticing!
how to make Stuffed Jumbo Shells
Ingredients:
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Ground meat of choice (e.g., spicy Impossible ground beef)
- Onions (finely chopped)
- Garlic powder
- Parsley
- Oregano
- Black pepper
- Ricotta cheese
- Cream cheese
- Egg
- Spinach (finely chopped)
- Red sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the ground meat in a pan. Add the chopped onions and seasonings (garlic powder, parsley, oregano, black pepper). Cook until done.
- Set the mixture aside to cool.
- Cook the jumbo noodles until they are al dente, then rinse under cold water.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked meat and onion mixture with ricotta cheese, cream cheese, egg, and spinach.
- Pour half of the red sauce into the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff the cooked noodles with the meat mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Add the remaining red sauce on top of the stuffed shells and sprinkle with mozzarella.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
how to serve Stuffed Jumbo Shells
Serve the Stuffed Jumbo Shells hot from the oven. They can be garnished with fresh parsley and served with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy them with your favorite beverage for a cozy dinner!
how to store Stuffed Jumbo Shells
If you have leftovers, let the stuffed shells cool completely, then cover them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them before baking for a convenient meal later. Just make sure to wrap them tightly, and they’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
tips to make Stuffed Jumbo Shells
- To save time, prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it should be firm enough to hold the stuffing.
variation
You can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by using plant-based meat or by skipping the meat altogether and adding more vegetables and cheese. Another variation is to use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, parmesan, or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sauce?
Yes, you can use alfredo sauce or pesto instead of red sauce if you prefer a different flavor.
2. How do I know when the stuffed shells are fully cooked?
The shells should be heated through and the cheese on top should be melted and bubbly, which usually takes about 25 minutes of baking.
3. Can I prepare Stuffed Jumbo Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and stuff the shells a day before, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them when ready to serve.
Stuffed Jumbo Shells
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a pan, brown the ground meat. Add chopped onions and seasonings (garlic powder, parsley, oregano, black pepper) and cook until done.
- Set the meat mixture aside to cool.
- Cook the jumbo noodles until they are al dente, then rinse under cold water.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked meat and onion mixture with ricotta cheese, cream cheese, egg, and spinach.
- Pour half of the red sauce into the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff the cooked noodles with the meat mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Add the remaining red sauce on top of the stuffed shells and sprinkle with mozzarella.
- Bake for 25 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.