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Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese
Ingredients:
For the Shells:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta Shells:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, combine the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish, open side up.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells with meat and cheese, a perfect dish for a comforting family meal!
