Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells

Jumbo pasta shells are a crowd-pleaser, especially when they are filled with a delicious beefy cheesy mixture and covered in rich marinara sauce. Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells are perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings alike, offering an easy yet flavorful dish that everyone will love. This recipe highlights the beauty of slow cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you attend to other tasks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep work, you can have a hearty meal ready with just a few simple steps.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef, cheeses, and herbs creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Serving: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Kid-Friendly: Both kids and adults will enjoy this comforting dish, making it a hit at any table.
• Time-Saving Cooking: Cooking in a slow cooker allows you to free up your time while the dish cooks to perfection.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring that your stuffed shells become tender and infused with flavor over several hours.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for easily combining all filling ingredients without making a mess.
• Frying pan: Used for browning the ground beef efficiently before adding it to the pasta shells.

Ingredients

Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a beefy cheesy mixture and smothered in marinara sauce.

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 2 cups cottage or ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 (12 oz) box jumbo pasta shells (has about 42 shells in it)
• 2 cups water
• 1 (26 oz jar or can) marinara sauce

How to Make Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a pan over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for about 5 minutes.
* Add in the kosher salt, garlic powder, black pepper, dried basil, onion powder, parsley, and oregano.
* Stir well until all spices are combined with the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, add the cottage or ricotta cheese along with the egg, grated mozzarella cheese, and shredded parmesan cheese.
* Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly until you have a creamy filling.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Use your fingers to carefully stuff each jumbo pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture.
* Some shells may be easier to stuff than others; don’t worry if they break slightly.

Step 4: Assemble in Slow Cooker

Place each stuffed shell into the bottom of your slow cooker.
* Pour 2 cups of water over the shells evenly.
* Then pour the marinara sauce over the top so that all shells are coated.

Step 5: Cook and Serve

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or until the pasta is tender.
* Once done, serve warm and enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells

Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells are a hearty and comforting dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: This classic side pairs perfectly with the cheesy stuffed shells, adding a crunchy texture and rich flavor.

Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan dressing complements the richness of the dish.

Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition to your plate, balancing the meal.

Wine Pairing

• Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti, enhances the flavors of the marinara sauce and meat filling.

Additional Cheese

• Sprinkle More Cheese: Top your slow cooker stuffed shells with extra mozzarella or Parmesan before serving for an indulgent finish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells

To make your Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells even better, follow these helpful tips for an optimal cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and cheeses will enhance the flavor of your stuffed shells significantly.
• Avoid Overstuffing: Fill each shell generously, but don’t overfill. This helps prevent spills during cooking.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Check your slow cooker frequently; different models may cook at varying speeds.
• Layer Properly: When placing shells in the slow cooker, layer them evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
• Garnish Before Serving: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving adds freshness and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells

Complement your Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with these delightful side dishes that balance flavors and textures.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for dipping into marinara sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned roasted asparagus offers a light crunch that pairs well with creamy stuffed shells.
4. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil creates a great base under the stuffed shells.
5. Italian Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, olives, and pickled vegetables can enhance the meal’s flavors.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve warm for a creamy appetizer that guests will love before diving into the main course.
7. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges add a satisfying crunch alongside the soft pasta shells.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overstuffing the shells: Filling the pasta too much can cause them to burst during cooking. Aim for a generous but manageable amount.
• Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season the meat will lead to bland flavors. Always add spices as directed in the recipe for maximum taste.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold cheeses or meat can affect cooking time. Allow ingredients to come to room temperature before combining.
• Not checking pasta doneness: Cooking times may vary by slow cooker. Check for tenderness about 30 minutes before the end of cooking time.
• Neglecting sauce coverage: Ensure all shells are well-covered with marinara sauce. Uneven coverage can result in dry spots.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells

• Place in freezer-safe containers for longer storage.
• Keep frozen for up to 3 months; label and date the containers.

Reheating Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover dish with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or sauce. Stir occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells.

Can I use other types of cheese in Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells?

Yes! Feel free to mix different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for varied flavor profiles.

How do I know when the shells are done cooking?

Pasta should be tender but not mushy. Test a shell around 3-4 hours into cooking.

Can I make Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before cooking.

What sides go well with Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or steamed vegetables complement this dish perfectly.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean substitute and works well with this recipe’s flavors.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells offer an easy and satisfying meal that suits any occasion. The combination of cheesy filling with rich marinara makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or vegetables for added flavor and nutrition!