Stuffs
A hearty stuffed pasta dish featuring jumbo shells filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheeses, topped with rich Ragu sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers comforting flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to cheese lovers and meat enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with garlic and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Prepare the jumbo shells as directed on the box, then drain on paper towels.
- Spread a layer of Ragu sauce in the bottom of a flat baking pan.
- Stuff each shell with a mixture of the cooked meat or cheese, then place in the pan on top of the sauce.
- Cover the stuffed shells with additional Ragu sauce.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven until the cheese bubbles, about 30 minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally with French toast and salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, try adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option. If you’re short on time, consider using pre-cooked frozen shells. Pairing this dish with a side of garlic bread can enhance your meal experience, similar to what you'd find in Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed shells hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. They pair wonderfully with a side salad and French toast for a complete meal. For a twist, consider offering a side of Broccoli-Stuffed Shells to complement the flavors of this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed shells can 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 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffs contains roughly 724 calories, with 26g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1071mg per serving (47% 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 prepare the stuffed shells in advance. Assemble them up to a day ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply add additional cooking time if they are cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Ragu sauce?
If you prefer homemade, you can use a simple marinara sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Alternatively, any jarred pasta sauce that you enjoy can be used, making it easy to customize to your taste.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely! After assembling, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.
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).