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Stuffed Pasta Shells With Meat And Cheese

Savory Stuffed Pasta Shells With Meat And Cheese Delight

Creamy Meat and Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells is a delightful Italian dish, perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 pieces Large Shells Pasta These shells are perfect because they hold your delicious filling well.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Beef (5% fat) This is the main protein, feel free to swap for ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1 medium White Onion Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic amplifies flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Oil Olive oil is recommended for sautéing.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Brings out the Italian flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper For a bit of spice.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce A flavorful base.
For the Cheese Filling
  • 2 cups Grated Mozzarella Cheese Melts beautifully.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Offers a sharp and salty edge.
  • 1 cup Cream Adds a creamy texture.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Medium-sized bowl
  • Ovenproof tray
  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent. Add in the ground beef, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes until browned. Pour in the marinara sauce, cover, and gently simmer for 10 minutes.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the large pasta shells and cook for about 5-6 minutes, just until slightly undercooked. Drain and rinse under cold water briefly. Set aside to cool.
  3. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, cream, and grated mozzarella. Mix until smooth.
  4. Assemble the Stuffed Shells: Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Grease an ovenproof tray. Spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom, fill each shell with the cheese mixture, place in the tray seam side up, cover with remaining sauce and sprinkle more mozzarella on top.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the assembled stuffed shells into the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Serve Warm: Allow to sit for a few minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 4mg

Notes

For best results, reheat in the oven with a splash of marinara sauce to restore moisture.

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