Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! Today, we are sharing a basic stuffed shells recipe that is sure to become a staple in your household. This recipe is perfect for those who love Italian cuisine and want to enjoy a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Stuffed shells are a classic Italian dish that combines the richness of meat sauce with the savory taste of ricotta cheese and herbs. The shells are cooked to perfection and then layered in a rich tomato sauce, making them a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this basic stuffed shells recipe is sure to be a hit!
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish:
– 1 box (24 count) jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 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
– Olive oil
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making these mouthwatering stuffed shells:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute.
4. Add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Fill each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, using a spoon or your fingers.
8. Place the stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, making sure they are evenly coated.
9. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the shells.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Enjoy your homemade stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This basic stuffed shells recipe is a fantastic way to showcase your culinary skills and bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table. Buon appetito!
