Ingredients and Weight:
- Jumbo pasta shells: 24 (1 pound)
- Ground beef: 1 pound
- Sweet Italian sausage: 1 pound
- Onion, chopped: 1 cup
- Green bell pepper, chopped: 1/2 cup
- Red bell pepper, chopped: 1/2 cup
- Garlic, minced: 4 cloves
- Tomato sauce: 28 ounces (2 cans)
- Tomato paste: 6 ounces (1 can)
- Italian seasoning: 2 tablespoons
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Ricotta cheese: 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese, grated: 1 cup
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 1 cup
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Difficulty Level: 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook jumbo pasta shells in boiling salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef and sausage. Drain off excess fat.
- Add onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses.
- Fill each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture.
- Spread half of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce.
- Top with remaining meat sauce.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories per serving: 450
- Protein: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and flavorful
- Hearty and satisfying
- Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion
User Comments:
- "These stuffed shells were a hit at my last dinner party. They were so easy to make and everyone loved them."
- "I love the combination of meat and cheese in this dish. It's the perfect comfort food."
- "I've tried other lasagna stuffed shell recipes before, but this one is by far the best. The flavors are amazing."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- If you can't find jumbo pasta shells, you can use regular pasta shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- To make the dish vegetarian, use vegetarian ground beef or ground turkey instead of meat and sausage.
- Add a layer of fresh spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrients.
