If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, this slow cooker stuffed shells with meat recipe is the perfect solution. Combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a sure crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing for a dinner party, these stuffed shells offer a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal effort, thanks to the convenience of a slow cooker. Let’s dive into how you can easily make this delectable meal!
Why You Should Try Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat
Stuffed shells are a classic Italian-American dish, typically baked in the oven. However, using a slow cooker adds an extra level of ease, allowing you to set and forget while the flavors meld together beautifully. Here are a few reasons why this version stands out:
- Hands-off Cooking: Once you prepare the ingredients, the slow cooker does all the work, freeing you up for other tasks.
- Rich Flavor Development: The slow-cooked sauce and cheese get a deep, rich flavor over time, making the dish even more delicious.
- Perfect for Busy Schedules: Set it in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a hot, satisfying meal ready to go!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 24 large pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- 4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Ingredient Notes:
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works well here, but you can swap in Italian sausage or a plant-based meat alternative if desired.
- Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess to the filling. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can mix in some cottage cheese.
- Marinara Sauce: Use a good-quality marinara sauce to complement the flavors of the meat and cheese filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat
Preparing the Stuffed Shells
- Cook the Pasta Shells: Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the pasta shells and cook them for about 7-8 minutes, or until al dente. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to soften in the slow cooker. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and the egg. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Fold in the cooled ground beef mixture until well combined.
- Stuff the Shells: Once the pasta shells are cool enough to handle, gently stuff each shell with the meat and cheese mixture, being careful not to tear the shells.
Setting Up the Slow Cooker
- Layer the Sauce: In the bottom of your slow cooker, spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce to create an even layer. This will prevent the shells from sticking and ensure they cook evenly.
- Arrange the Stuffed Shells: Place the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. If needed, you can layer them slightly but try to avoid overcrowding the slow cooker.
- Add More Sauce: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, making sure to cover them completely. This step is crucial to ensure the pasta cooks thoroughly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
Cooking the Stuffed Shells
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours. During this time, the shells will absorb the sauce and the cheese will melt into a rich, gooey filling. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 1.5 to 2 hours, but the low setting yields better flavor.
- Add Cheese: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover again and let the cheese melt to perfection.
Final Touches
- Garnish and Serve: Once the cooking time is up, turn off the slow cooker and let the dish rest for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your slow cooker stuffed shells with meat alongside garlic bread and a simple green salad for a balanced meal. A glass of red wine like Chianti pairs perfectly with this rich and hearty dish.
Tips for Success
- Prevent Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if your slow cooker runs hot. Overcooking can make the pasta too soft.
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality cheese and marinara sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan also makes a big difference.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with the filling by adding spinach, mushrooms, or Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or extra vegetables such as spinach and mushrooms.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells the night before and store them in the refrigerator. The next day, just add them to the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow the shells to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
How long does it take to cook on high?
If you’re short on time, cook the stuffed shells on high for about 1.5 to 2 hours. However, cooking on low for a longer period will give better results in terms of flavor and texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feel free to swap out the mozzarella or ricotta for your preferred cheeses, such as fontina or provolone, for a unique flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
You can reheat the stuffed shells in the microwave or oven. For best results, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through.
Conclusion
This slow cooker stuffed shells with meat recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, flavorful dinner that doesn’t require hours of hands-on work. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, delivering tender pasta, savory beef, and gooey cheese in a rich marinara sauce. Try this recipe for your next family meal or potluck, and enjoy the rave reviews!