Three-Cheese Jumbo Shells
I love cooking, but I'm not into fancy gourmet foods. I think it's more challenging to make delicious, down-home foods like this beefy casserole with ingredients easily found in the refrigerator and on my pantry shelves. — Marjorie Carey, Alamosa, Colorado
I love cooking, but I'm not into fancy gourmet foods. I think it's more challenging to make delicious, down-home foods like this beefy casserole with ingredients easily found in the refrigerator and on my pantry shelves. — Marjorie Carey, Alamosa, Colorado
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups water
- 1-1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2/3 cup chopped onion
- 1 carton (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon beef bouillon granules
- 24 jumbo pasta shells cooked and drained
- Carbohydrate 24.7262083351955 g
- Cholesterol 98.5378514537779 mg
- Fat 11.1195177722273 g
- Fiber 0.226666673216108 g
- Protein 17.6409393666345 g
- Saturated Fat 4.26198980383696 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (182g)
- Sodium 337.032954386796 mg
- Sugar 24.4995416619794 g
- Trans Fat 1.70745760641114 g
- Calories 274 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink; drain.
- Stir in the water, tomato paste, bouillon and oregano.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese and egg.
- Stuff shells with the cheese mixture.
- Arrange shells in a greased shallow 3-qt. baking dish.
- Spoon meat sauce over shells.
- Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
- Uncover; sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake 3-5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.
- Freeze option: After assembling, sprinkle casserole with remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover and freeze unbaked casserole. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake casserole as directed, increasing time as necessary to heat through and for a thermometer inserted in center to read 165 degrees.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Three-Cheese Jumbo Shells
As a busy mom of three, time is a precious commodity. My days are a whirlwind of school runs, work deadlines, and the never-ending cycle of laundry and dishes. So, when it comes to dinner, I need something that’s quick, easy, and most importantly, delicious. That's where my Three-Cheese Jumbo Shells recipe comes in. It's the ultimate comfort food, a hearty and satisfying dish that the whole family loves. It’s become a staple in our home, a reliable go-to when I need a delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. It relies on pantry staples and readily available ingredients. No need for exotic cheeses or hard-to-find spices. This is a recipe rooted in practicality, designed for the everyday cook. The ground beef provides a rich and savory base, complemented beautifully by the creamy ricotta and the melty mozzarella. The tangy tomato paste adds a depth of flavor, while the oregano provides a subtle warmth. The jumbo shells, plump and perfectly cooked, hold the delicious cheese filling and savory sauce, creating a dish that is both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying.
The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. I often adjust the recipe based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, other times I substitute spinach or mushrooms for some extra vegetables. The possibilities are truly endless. And the freezer-friendly option is a lifesaver on those nights when I'm short on time. I simply assemble the casserole, freeze it, and then bake it whenever I need a quick and easy meal. It’s a true testament to its versatility and adaptability to my busy lifestyle. It’s a comfort food classic, made even better by its simplicity and ease of preparation.
Beyond the Recipe: This isn't just a recipe; it's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time for a comforting, delicious home-cooked meal. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and even simpler cooking techniques. It's a recipe that nourishes not just the body, but the soul. And it's a recipe I'm happy to share with you, knowing that it will bring a little bit of comfort and joy to your own kitchen.
Tips and Tricks:
- Pre-cooked Shells: Using pre-cooked jumbo shells saves you valuable time. Just make sure to cook them according to package directions.
- Meat Substitutions: Feel free to use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a variation on the flavor profile.
- Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and add more flavor.
- Spice it Up: A dash of red pepper flakes adds a welcome kick, making it a perfect weeknight meal for those who prefer a little heat.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Provolone, Fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would be delightful additions.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a moment of calm in a busy life, a taste of home, a symbol of nourishment, and a reminder that even the simplest dishes can bring immense satisfaction. So, the next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and undeniably delicious meal, give my Three-Cheese Jumbo Shells a try. You won't be disappointed.
