Stuffed Pasta Shells with Beef and Cheese

1. This recipe is perfect for lovers of Italian cuisine, families looking for delicious and satisfying meals, and anyone wanting to try something new. Stuffed pasta shells with beef and cheese are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. This recipe will make every meal an exceptional experience.

2. Ingredients For the filling:

• 300 g (10.5 oz) large pasta shells (conchiglioni)
• 500 g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400 g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes
• 200 g (7 oz) cheddar cheese, grated
• 100 g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

3. Recipe History Stuffed pasta shells, known as conchiglioni ripieni in Italian, are a beloved dish in Italian cuisine. Traditionally filled with a variety of ingredients, from ricotta and spinach to meats and vegetables, these pasta shells offer a versatile and satisfying meal option that has been cherished by families for generations.

4. Tips and Advice

• Pasta Shells: Cook the pasta shells just until al dente to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
• Cheese: For a richer flavor, you can mix in some Parmesan cheese with the cheddar and mozzarella.
• Filling: Make sure the filling is not too watery to avoid soggy shells.

5. Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 3 g

6. Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

7. Ingredient Substitutions

• Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Cheddar Cheese: Use any other melting cheese like gouda or Monterey Jack.

8. Adjusting Portions

• More: Double the ingredients for a larger batch, using a larger baking dish.
• Less: Halve the ingredients if making for a smaller group.

9. Seasonality This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. It’s especially comforting in the cooler months but makes a hearty meal any time of the year.

10. Dish Presentation Serve the stuffed pasta shells in a large, decorative baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. Accompany with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

11. Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells:

• Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft and golden.
• Add ground beef and cook until browned.
• Stir in diced bell pepper and canned tomatoes. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

3. Stuff the Shells:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture into each pasta shell. Arrange stuffed shells in a baking dish.

4. Bake:

• Sprinkle the stuffed shells with grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

5. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or a fresh salad.

12. Cooling and Serving

• Cooling: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
• Serving: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by crusty bread or a fresh salad.

13. Reviews and Testimonials

• “These stuffed pasta shells are a hit at every dinner! The combination of beef, cheese, and vegetables is perfect.” – Anna
• “Easy to make and absolutely delicious. My family loved it!” – Michael
• “A great recipe for any occasion. The stuffed shells were flavorful and satisfying.” – Kasia

Summary Stuffed pasta shells with beef and cheese are a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory beef, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheese will delight your taste buds. Enjoy this recipe and share your experience with others!

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