Meat And Cheese Stuffed Shells
Cheesy meat-stuffed shells baked in flavorful tomato sauce, combining tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese for a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook shells in boiling water according to directions on box.
- In a frying pan, brown ground beef and chopped onion.
- Drain off any extra grease.
- Add bread crumbs and parsley; set aside.
- Cover bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with 2/3 cup of spaghetti sauce.
- Allow the shells to cool, then fill with the meat mixture.
- Place the filled shells in the baking dish on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the shells until they are completely covered.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the meat mixture. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. Additionally, using low-fat cheese can help reduce calories without sacrificing taste. Ensure the pasta shells are al dente to prevent them from falling apart during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve meat and cheese stuffed shells with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can enhance presentation and flavor. For a comforting family dinner, pair it with Italian recipes like Baked Lasagne Casserole or Lasagna Soup to create a satisfying feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed shells should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat And Cheese Stuffed Shells contains roughly 613 calories, with 28g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (85% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1153mg per serving (50% 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 make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble stuffed shells ahead of time. Prepare them up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
A blend of mozzarella and ricotta cheese is ideal for stuffed shells due to their creamy texture and melting properties. However, feel free to experiment with provolone or parmesan for added flavor. Grated cheese on top can also be adjusted to your preference.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes, stuffed shells freeze well. After assembling, place them in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, add an additional 15-20 minutes to the cooking time, ensuring they are heated through.
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).