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Meat & Cheese Stuffed Shells

These Meat & Cheese Stuffed Shells combine the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy mozzarella, and savory herbs, making it a perfect comfort food for family dinners or special occasions.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Shell Filling
  • 1.5 lbs lean ground beef Juicy and savory base.
  • 8 oz mozzarella, diced small (1/4-inch dice) Adds creamy goodness.
  • 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs Helps bind filling.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese Enhances flavor.
  • 4 each eggs Binds the filling.
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Elevates the dish.
  • 2 tsp salt To season the filling.
  • 1/2 tsp pepper To enhance flavors.
  • 4 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or 2 tbsp dried parsley Adds freshness.
  • 2 tbsp milk Smooths out the filling.
  • Extra Parmesan cheese for topping For a golden crust.
  • 1/2-1 cup shredded mozzarella for topping Ensures a gooey finish.
Tomato Sauce
  • 1 recipe Quick Chunky Tomato Sauce Robust sauce to complement the shells.
Pasta Shells
  • 24 large shells large pasta shells Cooked per package instructions and cooled.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Pour about 1/4 cup of the Quick Chunky Tomato Sauce in the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
  3. In a large bowl, combine lean ground beef, diced mozzarella, breadcrumbs, grated cheese, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, parsley, and milk. Mix until well incorporated.
Assembly
  1. Divide the filling into 24 equal portions and stuff each shell tightly.
  2. Place the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish.
  3. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella.
Baking
  1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 60 to 75 minutes.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for best flavor. For easy cleanup, line your baking dish with parchment paper. You can prepare the filling and shells a day ahead and bake when ready.