Jumbo Stuff Shells

For the Stuffed Shells:

  • 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells

  • 1 lb ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  1. Cook the Pasta Shells:

    • Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:

    • In a skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Add chopped onions and minced garlic and cook until onions are softened. Drain excess fat if necessary.

    • In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture with ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

  1. Make the Tomato Sauce:

    • In a separate saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  1. Stuff the Shells:

    • Spoon a generous amount of the meat and cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell.

  1. Assemble in Baking Dish:

    • Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.

    • Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish.

    • Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top.

  1. Bake:

    • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the shells.

    • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.

  1. Garnish and Serve:

    • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

    • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.