Mom'S Stuffed Shells
Creamy stuffed shells filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, vegetables, and cream cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain jumbo shells according to package directions.
- Rinse the cooked shells in cold water and set aside.
- Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, then add diced green pepper and onion; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Cook broccoli heads until tender, then mash lightly.
- Add cream cheese to the mashed broccoli and stir until melted and combined.
- Mix the broccoli and cream cheese mixture into the cooked ground beef along with the vegetables.
- Stuff the cooked shells with the beef and vegetable mixture, then place in a baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese. You can also add spices like Italian seasoning or garlic powder for extra flavor. If you have leftovers, you can substitute spinach for broccoli or use ground turkey for a lighter option. Cooking the shells al dente is recommended to prevent them from tearing during stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mom's Stuffed Shells with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a refreshing touch, pair with Italian recipes like a caprese salad. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added flavor. This dish makes for a great family dinner or a hearty meal prep option for the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but the oven method helps retain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Stuffed Shells contains roughly 913 calories, with 24g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 stuffed shells before baking?
Yes, you can freeze stuffed shells before baking. Arrange them in a single layer in a baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
What can I serve with stuffed shells?
Stuffed shells pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving a fresh garden salad, crusty garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables. For a comforting addition, serve with a side of spaghetti with eggs and bacon for a delicious twist.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make Mom's Stuffed Shells vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or more vegetables. You can also add extra cheese or a mix of ricotta and spinach for a hearty filling, keeping in mind the flavors of Italian recipes.
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).