Jumbo Stuffed Shells (Beef)
Jumbo stuffed shells filled with a savory beef and cheese mixture, baked in rich tomato sauce for a hearty Italian-inspired meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break ground beef into small particles and sauté in butter or olive oil.
- Mix thoroughly the meat, egg, mozzarella, milk, bread, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Fill cooked jumbo shells with the meat mixture.
- Cover the bottom of a baking dish with pasta sauce.
- Arrange the filled shells side by side in a single layer in the baking pan.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the filled shells.
- Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle with grated cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and pork, as suggested in the ingredients. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made pasta sauce, such as Reddy Family Sauce, for a quick option. For a lighter filling, try adding spinach or substituting cottage cheese for some of the mozzarella. Make sure to cook the jumbo shells al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the jumbo stuffed shells with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra parsley or grated cheese on top can elevate the presentation. For an Italian-inspired dinner, pair with a glass of red wine and browse more Italian recipes for complementary dishes. These stuffed shells also make great leftovers for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish with a bit of pasta sauce to keep them moist, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, covered, for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jumbo Stuffed Shells (Beef) contains roughly 637 calories, with 12g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 848mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the stuffed shells before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Assemble them in a baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta or a blend of provolone and fontina for a different flavor profile. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you're looking for a lactose-free option. Just make sure to adjust the amount to maintain the consistency of the filling.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
To add some heat to your jumbo stuffed shells, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the meat mixture or use a spicy pasta sauce. You can also add diced jalapeños or chopped green chilies for an extra kick. Just be sure to balance the spice with the creaminess of the cheese to keep the flavors harmonious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).