Stuffed Super Shells
Creamy stuffed shells filled with a savory beef and cheese mixture, baked in rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put a generous layer of spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch dish.
- Mix eggs, shredded Mozzarella, Ricotta cheese, parsley flakes, salt, ground beef, and garlic powder.
- Fill each cooked jumbo pasta shell with the cheese and beef mixture.
- Place the filled shells in the dish over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the shells.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the cheese and beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. If you want a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. Make sure to use a high-quality spaghetti sauce, such as 'Spaghetti Sauce' (Straight From Italy!) for authentic taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed shells with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or a dollop of ricotta on top enhances the presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Italian Hamburger Pie for a comforting feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, approximately 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for a quicker option, covering with a damp paper towel to keep moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Super Shells contains roughly 678 calories, with 48g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (95% of the Daily Value), calcium (74% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1870mg per serving (81% 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 this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from the fridge, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze the stuffed super shells?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days.
What can I serve with stuffed super shells?
Stuffed super shells go well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a Caesar salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of bruschetta. A glass of red wine can enhance the flavors, making for a delightful dining experience.
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).