Stuffed Shells

Stuffed Shells

Yields: Approximately 12-15 shells

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cook time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 12 oz jumbo pasta shells

• 15 oz ricotta cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Marinara sauce

Equipment:

• Large skillet or pot

• Medium bowl

• Baking dish (9x13 inch)

Instructions:

1. Cook Ground Beef:

   • In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.

   • Drain off any excess grease.

   • Season the cooked beef with Italian Seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Cook Pasta Shells:

   • Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente.

   • Drain the pasta shells and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. Prepare Filling:

   • In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese.

   • Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

   • Add the cooked ground beef to the cheese mixture and stir to combine.

4. Stuff the Shells:

   • Spoon the filling into each cooked pasta shell, filling them generously.

5. Assemble and Bake:

   • Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.

   • Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the marinara sauce.

   • Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese.

6. Bake:

   • Bake the stuffed shells in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

   • Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve:

   • Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving.

   • Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• You can use ground turkey or ground sausage instead of ground beef.

• Add chopped spinach or diced vegetables to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.

• Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

• For a creamier sauce, add a small amount of heavy cream to the marinara sauce.

Let me know if you'd like any adjustments or have any other questions!