Stuffed Pasta Shells with Meat Sauce and Mozzarell
Stuffed Pasta Shells with Meat Sauce and Mozzarella
Ingredients:
- 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add garlic, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta shells, meat sauce, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
7. Stuff each pasta shell with the meat sauce mixture and place in a baking dish.
8. Top each shell with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
11. Serve hot and enjoy!
I hope you enjoy this recipe. Let me know if you have any questions or if you'd like any variations or substitutions.
Stuffed pasta shells are a classic Italian-American dish that combines the comfort of pasta with a hearty meat sauce and gooey cheese. This recipe calls for jumbo pasta shells filled with a delicious mixture of ground beef, onions, and spices, all bound together with a beaten egg. To elevate the flavor, you can customize the meat sauce with additional spices or vegetables; consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms for extra depth. For a touch of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce while it's simmering. After stuffing the pasta shells, layer them in a baking dish and generously cover them with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The baking process not only melds the flavors but also gives you that delightful golden-brown cheese top. Serve these stuffed shells with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Not only are they satisfying, but they also make excellent leftovers, making them perfect for meal prep. Enjoy this dish with family and friends, and don't hesitate to explore variations such as using ricotta cheese combined with spinach for a vegetarian twist!