Baked Stuffed Shells

These Baked Stuffed Shells are a delightful and comforting dish that everyone will love. Filled with a rich blend of three types of cheese and topped with a savory meat sauce, they are perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The gooey melted mozzarella adds a touch of indulgence, making them an unforgettable meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed shells make for a satisfying and versatile option that pleases both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates an irresistible cheesy filling.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the filling or sauce to suit your taste preferences.
• Freezer-Friendly: These stuffed shells freeze well, allowing you to prepare meals ahead of time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these shells are sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Baked Stuffed Shells, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9 x 13 inches)
• Cooking spray
• Pot for boiling pasta

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Needed for sautéing onions, garlic, and ground beef evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the cheese filling thoroughly without spills.
• Baking dish: Provides ample space for all the stuffed shells while ensuring even baking in the oven.

Ingredients

These deliciously cheesy Baked Stuffed Shells are filled to the brim with three types of cheese, then topped with a meat sauce and more mozzarella. Baked to golden brown perfection, these stuffed shells never get old! You’ll want to add these stuffed pasta shells to your regular meal rotation!

For the Shells

• 20 jumbo pasta shells (6 ounces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 pound ground beef

For the Sauce

• 24 ounces pasta sauce (or my homemade meat sauce)

For the Cheese Filling

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella (divided)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley

How to Make Baked Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook Pasta Shells

Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and warm it over medium heat.
* Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Brown Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet.
* Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce

Pour in the pasta sauce.
* Let it simmer on low heat until you are ready to use it.

Step 6: Make Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat one egg.
2. Add ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley.
3. Mix well until combined.

Step 7: Assemble Shells

Spread 1/3 of the meat sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
* Carefully fill each pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.

Step 8: Add Remaining Sauce

Pour any remaining meat sauce over the filled shells.
* Cover the pan with tin foil.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes.

Step 10: Final Touches

Remove the tin foil from your baking dish.
* Sprinkle remaining mozzarella over each shell and return them to bake uncovered for another 5–10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy these delicious Baked Stuffed Shells as a hearty meal that brings comfort and joy!

How to Serve Baked Stuffed Shells

Baked Stuffed Shells are a comforting dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that pair beautifully with these cheesy, stuffed pasta shells.

With a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese create a classic pairing.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offer a refreshing contrast to the rich shells.

Complementary Bread

• Garlic Bread – Toasted bread topped with garlic butter makes for an irresistible side to soak up any extra sauce.
• Focaccia – This Italian flatbread, seasoned with herbs and olive oil, adds a delightful texture to your meal.

Tasty Toppings

• Fresh Basil – A sprinkle of fresh basil enhances flavor and adds a vibrant touch to the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes – For those who enjoy heat, a dash of red pepper flakes will spice things up nicely.

Delicious Wine Pairing

• Chianti – This medium-bodied red wine complements the flavors of Italian cuisine perfectly.
• Pinot Grigio – For white wine lovers, this light and crisp option balances the richness of the stuffed shells.

How to Perfect Baked Stuffed Shells

To ensure your Baked Stuffed Shells turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses for a more vibrant taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook the shells al dente; they will continue cooking while baking in the oven.
• Mix Cheese Varieties – Combining ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides depth of flavor and creaminess.
• Layer Generously – Ensure you have enough meat sauce beneath and over the shells for added moisture and taste.
• Cover During Baking – Covering with tin foil prevents over-browning while allowing flavors to meld together during cooking.
• Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving helps it set better for easier slicing.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Stuffed Shells

Baked Stuffed Shells are versatile enough to be paired with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options that complement this Italian favorite.

1. Garlic Green Beans – Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic provide a crispy texture.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrients.
3. Italian Antipasto Platter – An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an elegant starter.
4. Creamy Risotto – This rich side dish offers a comforting balance to the stuffed shells.
5. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy fritters made from zucchini add a unique twist that pairs well with pasta dishes.
6. Minestrone Soup – A hearty vegetable soup is perfect as an appetizer or side for an Italian-themed dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Stuffed Shells can be straightforward, but a few common errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the pre-cooking of shells: Failing to cook the pasta shells before stuffing them can result in a chewy texture. Always follow package directions for cooking time.
• Not seasoning the filling: A bland filling can ruin your dish. Make sure to season the ricotta mixture with salt, pepper, and herbs for maximum flavor.
• Overfilling the shells: Overstuffing can make it difficult to close the dish and may cause spills during baking. Fill each shell generously but don’t overdo it.
• Ignoring baking times: Baking for too long or too short can affect texture and flavor. Monitor your dish closely, especially during the last few minutes.
• Using low-quality sauce: The sauce significantly impacts overall taste. Opt for a good-quality pasta sauce or homemade meat sauce for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Baked Stuffed Shells can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Stuffed Shells

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Stuffed Shells

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes on high, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan with a splash of water, cover, and heat over medium-low until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Baked Stuffed Shells that you might find helpful.

Can I make Baked Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them fully and refrigerate overnight before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to your baking time if they’re cold.

What types of cheese are best for Baked Stuffed Shells?

Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are traditional choices. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or feta for unique flavors.

Can I freeze uncooked Baked Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Assemble them and freeze before baking. Just remember to add extra time when cooking from frozen.

How do I prevent my shells from sticking together?

To prevent sticking, toss cooked shells lightly in olive oil before stuffing and ensure they are not overcrowded in the storage container.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Stuffed Shells offer a delightful blend of cheesy goodness and savory meat sauce that is sure to please everyone at your table. They are versatile enough for any occasion, whether family dinners or gatherings with friends. Feel free to customize the fillings or sauces according to your preferences!