Stuffed "Armadillo" Shells
Cheesy stuffed rolls filled with seasoned hamburger, broccoli, and creamy soup make a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook hamburger meat in a skillet with seasonings and a small amount of salt until done.
- Cook broccoli in the microwave with a small amount of water for about 8 minutes or until tender.
- Mix the cooked hamburger meat, broccoli, and broccoli cheese soup together in a bowl.
- Split the Vienna rolls slightly and fill them with the meat and broccoli mixture.
- Top the filled rolls with grated mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at about 375°F for approximately 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding chopped onions or seasonings like garlic powder and black pepper to the hamburger meat while cooking. You can substitute the broccoli cheese soup with a homemade cheese sauce for a fresher taste. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the hamburger meat with sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed 'Armadillo' shells with a side of mixed greens or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Black-Eyed Peas And Red Beans for a hearty, comforting dinner. Consider offering a dipping sauce, like ranch or marinara, for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help keep the rolls crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed "Armadillo" Shells contains roughly 565 calories, with 18g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value) and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1403mg per serving (61% 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 use other types of bread instead of Vienna rolls?
Yes, you can use any type of soft bread or rolls, such as hoagie rolls or even pita pockets. Just be sure to adjust the filling amount based on the size of the bread.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the rolls ahead of time. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. Bake them fresh when you're ready to serve for the best texture.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed rolls before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).