Stuffed shells are one of those dishes that never fail to impress. This recipe takes tender pasta shells and fills them with a hearty mixture of chopped beef and vibrant spinach. It’s a delightful way to combine flavors and textures in one satisfying bite.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting meal for your family, these stuffed shells are sure to please. The rich beef filling paired with the freshness of spinach creates a wonderful harmony. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies!
This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with the bright green spinach peeking through the cheesy topping. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or when you want to show off your culinary skills.
Overview of Stuffed Pasta Shells
Stuffed pasta shells are a delightful culinary creation that combines the comforting nature of pasta with a hearty filling. This dish brings together textures and flavors that make each bite enjoyable.
A plate of these shells can easily turn a regular dinner into a special occasion. The inviting aroma of baked cheese and marinara sauce fills the air, enticing anyone nearby.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The filling for the shells includes a savory mix of chopped beef and fresh spinach, blended with creamy ricotta and shredded mozzarella cheese. This combination not only adds rich flavors but also ensures a satisfying bite.
Each element plays a role, from the robust ground beef to the lightness of the spinach, creating a well-balanced dish. Topping it all off with marinara sauce and more cheese elevates this dish to a comforting meal.
Preparation Steps
To begin, the pasta shells must be cooked until al dente, providing the perfect texture for stuffing. While the pasta cooks, the ground beef is browned in a skillet, releasing savory aromas that complement the dish.
Once the beef is cooked, adding spinach brings a pop of color and nutrients. Mixing in the ricotta and mozzarella creates a creamy filling that will nestle perfectly inside the shells.
Baking the Dish
After each shell is generously filled, they are arranged in a baking dish and covered with marinara sauce. The final touch is a sprinkle of extra cheese, which melts beautifully during baking.
Baking the shells in a preheated oven allows all the flavors to meld together, transforming the dish into a comforting meal. The sight of bubbling cheese and golden edges adds to the anticipation.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, the stuffed shells can be garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of brightness. This dish pairs wonderfully with a slice of garlic bread, which complements the flavors and adds an extra layer of comfort.
Serving these stuffed pasta shells at a dinner table invites conversations and creates a warm atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of stuffed pasta shells contains a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a fulfilling meal option. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of a hearty dish that also incorporates vegetables.
This recipe can serve four people, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering, ensuring everyone leaves the table content.
Delicious Chopped Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
These stuffed shells are filled with a savory mixture of chopped beef, spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese, all baked in a rich marinara sauce. The combination of flavors makes for a hearty, comforting dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in the chopped spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before mixing in ricotta and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Stuff the Shells: Spoon the beef and spinach mixture into each cooked pasta shell and place them in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, topping with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
