Cheesy Stuffed Shells on a Shoestring: A Comforting Pasta Feast That Won’t Break the Bank
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food without straining your wallet! Our Cheesy Stuffed Shells on a Shoestring recipe combines the classic Italian-American favorite with budget-friendly ingredients, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for families or meal prep enthusiasts.
Imagine pulling a bubbling tray of golden, cheese-topped pasta shells from the oven, their savory aroma filling your kitchen. Each oversized shell cradles a delicious mixture of seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, all nestled in a bed of tangy tomato sauce. It’s a dish that promises to please both your taste buds and your wallet.
This recipe takes a traditionally indulgent dish and makes it accessible for everyday dining. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, stuffed shells have been a beloved comfort food for generations. By using affordable ingredients and simple techniques, we’ve created a version that delivers all the flavor and satisfaction of the original, without the hefty price tag. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite red wine for a complete meal that feels like a special occasion, any night of the week.
Cheesy Stuffed Shells on a Shoestring Recipe
Ingredients:
1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, beaten
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the meat is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and let the meat mixture cool slightly.
6. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
7. Add the cooled meat mixture to the cheese mixture and stir to combine.
8. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
9. Fill each pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the meat and cheese mixture, and arrange them in the baking dish.
10. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
11. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
12. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
13. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Air Fryer Instructions:
1. Follow steps 1-9 above.
2. Arrange stuffed shells in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary.
3. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the shells are heated through.
4. Serve with warmed marinara sauce on the side.
Notes:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with finely chopped mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- To make ahead, assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 4 stuffed shells
Calories: 450
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 680mg
Other Information
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Equipment: Large skillet, 9×13 inch baking dish, large pot for boiling pasta
Estimated cost per serving: $2.50
Total cost: $10.00 (serves 4)
In Conclusion, Cheesy Stuffed Shells on a Shoestring
In conclusion, this Cheesy Stuffed Shells on a Shoestring recipe proves that delicious, satisfying meals don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. By combining simple, affordable ingredients with classic cooking techniques, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping on a budget. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this beloved Italian-American favorite without breaking the bank.
More cheap cheerful meal ideas here!
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