Introduction
When it comes to comfort food that satisfies the whole family, Cheesy Stuffed Shells Casserole is a timeless classic. This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and a generous amount of gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Cheesy Stuffed Shells Casserole!
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering Cheesy Stuffed Shells Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
– Jumbo pasta shells: 1 box
– Lean ground beef: 1 pound
– Onion: 1, finely chopped
– Garlic cloves: 2, minced
– Tomato sauce: 2 cups
– Ricotta cheese: 1 1/2 cups
– Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded
– Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
– Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
These simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a hearty and satisfying meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Steps
Follow these easy steps to whip up a Cheesy Stuffed Shells Casserole that will have your taste buds singing:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce and simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld together.
5. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place them in the prepared baking dish.
7. Pour the meat sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Variations
While the classic Cheesy Stuffed Shells Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, feel free to get creative with variations to suit your taste preferences:
– Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a meat-free version.
– Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce for a kick of heat.
– Seafood Delight: Incorporate cooked shrimp or crab meat into the cheese mixture for a luxurious seafood casserole.
Experimenting with different ingredients and flavors can add a fun twist to this classic recipe and keep your meals exciting and diverse.
Tips
Here are some handy tips to ensure your Cheesy Stuffed Shells Casserole turns out perfectly every time:
– Don’t overcook the pasta shells; they should be slightly firm since they will continue cooking in the oven.
– Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to serve.
– Customize the cheese blend by adding your favorite cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or fontina for a unique flavor profile.
– Make a double batch and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals on busy days.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cheesy Stuffed Shells Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together comforting flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian cuisine or simply love a cheesy and satisfying meal, this recipe is a winner. With its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s no wonder that this casserole has stood the test of time as a beloved family favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of cheesy goodness!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: While jumbo pasta shells are traditional, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like manicotti or large shells for a unique twist.
Q: How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying.
Cheesy Stuffed Shells Casserole
Cheesy Stuffed Shells Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that combines tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy homemade meal.
Ingredients
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1 box jumbo pasta shells
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1 pound lean ground beef
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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2 cups tomato sauce
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1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
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2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
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1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
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Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
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Stir in the tomato sauce and simmer for a few minutes.
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In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.
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Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture and place in the prepared baking dish.
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Pour the meat sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
