Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these Ground Beef Mozzarella Stuffed Shells! This recipe takes the classic stuffed shells and elevates them with a flavorful ground beef filling and gooey mozzarella cheese. It's a perfect weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing dish for a family gathering, or even a satisfying lunch. Get ready to dive into a world of cheesy, meaty goodness! This recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, all while being an example of delicious dishes and the best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 15 jumbo pasta shells (or more, depending on your dish size)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. This homemade cooking method ensures a rich and flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple mixture adds a creamy and flavorful contrast to the meat sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Gently stuff each cooked shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture.
Step 4: Bake the Shells
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, seam-side down. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the shells. Top with the sliced mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the sauce is heated through. Let stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly making it easier to serve.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Add vegetables to the meat sauce, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- If you don't have fresh mozzarella, you can use shredded mozzarella instead.
- For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the filling, such as cottage cheese or provolone.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: Approximately 25-30g Fat: Approximately 25-30g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This easy recipe for ground beef mozzarella stuffed shells is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish as a quick dinner idea, or a satisfying meal any time. It's a great example of delicious dishes and the best recipes perfect for easy recipes and homemade cooking. Remember to adapt the recipe to your preferences and enjoy the culinary journey!