How to Make Stuffed Shells: A Delightful Italian Dish
Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and mouthwatering dishes, and stuffed shells are no exception. This delightful Italian dish combines the best of pasta and meat, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, learning how to make stuffed shells is a valuable skill. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this delicious dish, ensuring that you can enjoy homemade stuffed shells in no time.
Ingredients for Stuffed Shells
Before diving into the recipe, gather the following ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions for Making Stuffed Shells
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stuff each pasta shell with a spoonful of the ricotta mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the greased baking dish, overlapping them slightly.
8. Pour the simmered sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are fully coated.
9. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the stuffed shells.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade stuffed shells as a delightful meal that will leave your taste buds craving more. Buon appetito!
