Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying dish to impress your family and friends? Look no further than stuffed shells recipe! This classic Italian dish combines the best of pasta and savory meat fillings, creating a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone craving more. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making the perfect stuffed shells, from selecting the right ingredients to following the step-by-step instructions. Get ready to indulge in a delightful culinary adventure!
Stuffed shells, also known as stuffed pasta shells or manicotti, are a staple in Italian cuisine. These large pasta shells are filled with a rich and flavorful meat mixture, then baked to perfection. The combination of the tender pasta, savory filling, and creamy tomato sauce creates a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a homemade meal, stuffed shells recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Before you start making stuffed shells, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s dive into the stuffed shells recipe:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and ground pork over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, ricotta cheese, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Fill each pasta shell with the meat mixture, then top with a sprinkle of the cheese mixture.
8. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish, and pour any remaining tomato sauce over the top.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Enjoy your delicious homemade stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread or a salad. This stuffed shells recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner!
