Quick "Stuffed" Shells
A comforting baked pasta dish featuring stuffed shells filled with seasoned ground beef, topped with cheese, and simmered in rich tomato sauce for a family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef as you would for meatloaf.
- Saute in a little oil in a heavy skillet; pour off fat.
- Combine sauce with ground beef; simmer until thickened.
- Boil shells as directed on package, adding a little oil to prevent sticking; drain.
- Spread a layer of beef on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Add a layer of shells over the beef; repeat layers, ending with beef mixture on top.
- Sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake at 350°F until cheese melts and is lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, mix the ground beef with breadcrumbs and an egg as you would for meatloaf. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder can enhance the flavor. Consider using store-bought spaghetti sauce like Spaghetti Sauce (California-Style) for convenience, or make your own for a fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed shells with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Perfect Spaghetti for a hearty Italian feast. For a festive touch, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. A glass of red wine complements the flavors wonderfully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick "Stuffed" Shells contains roughly 589 calories, with 32g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium.
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
How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?
To prevent the shells from sticking, add a bit of oil to the boiling water and stir gently while cooking. After draining, toss the shells with a little oil before assembling the dish. This helps keep them separate and easier to fill.
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).