Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Shells:
  • 1 box jumbo pasta shells (about 12 ounces)
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Meat Sauce:
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For Topping:
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain the shells, rinse them under cold water, and set them aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
   • Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
   • Stir in the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Assemble the Stuffed Shells:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
   • Fill each cooked pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the ricotta cheese mixture and place the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
   • Pour the remaining meat sauce over the stuffed shells.
5. Bake:
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the shells.
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the stuffed shells from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
   • Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce!

This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender pasta shells, creamy ricotta filling, and flavorful meat sauce topped with melted cheese will make this a favorite at your table.