San Giorgio Stuffed Shells Recipe with Meat

San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This dish is made with jumbo pasta shells that are stuffed with a delicious mixture of meat, cheese, and herbs. The shells are then baked to perfection in a rich tomato sauce and topped with more cheese. The result is a mouthwatering meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

To make San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat, you will need a few key ingredients. These include jumbo pasta shells, ground beef or Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, egg, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce. The meat is cooked with the garlic and onion until browned and then mixed with the cheeses, egg, and parsley to create the filling. The pasta shells are then boiled until al dente and stuffed with the meat and cheese mixture. The shells are placed in a baking dish with tomato sauce and topped with more cheese before being baked in the oven.

One of the great things about San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat is that it can be customized to suit your tastes. You can use ground beef, Italian sausage, or a combination of both for the meat filling. You can also add spinach or other vegetables to the filling for added nutrition. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese or herbs to create a unique flavor profile.

Key Takeaways

• San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
• The dish is made with jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a mixture of meat, cheese, and herbs, baked in tomato sauce, and topped with more cheese.
• The recipe can be customized by using different types of meat, adding vegetables, or experimenting with different types of cheese and herbs.

Ingredients for San Giorgio Stuffed Shells

Preparing a delicious and hearty meal for family and friends can be an enjoyable experience. One recipe that is sure to satisfy is San Giorgio Stuffed Shells with meat. This classic Italian dish is made with jumbo pasta shells filled with a delicious mixture of meat, cheese, and herbs. Here are the ingredients needed to make San Giorgio Stuffed Shells with meat:

Pasta Shells

The first ingredient for San Giorgio Stuffed Shells is the pasta shells themselves. San Giorgio jumbo pasta shells are recommended for this recipe. They are made from semolina wheat and durum flour and are perfect for stuffing with the meat and cheese mixture. One box of San Giorgio jumbo pasta shells contains about 42 shells and is enough for 6 servings.

Meat

The meat used in San Giorgio Stuffed Shells can be ground beef, ground pork, or a combination of both. One pound of meat is needed for this recipe. It is important to use lean meat to avoid excess fat in the dish.

Cheese

The cheese filling for San Giorgio Stuffed Shells consists of ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. One cup of each cheese is needed for this recipe. The ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture, while the mozzarella cheese provides a gooey, melted cheese flavor. The Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty flavor to the dish.

Herbs and Spices

To add flavor to the cheese and meat mixture, various herbs and spices are used. Fresh parsley, oregano leaves, and basil are recommended for this recipe. Salt and pepper are also added to taste.

Sauce

The final ingredient for San Giorgio Stuffed Shells is the sauce. A jar of marinara sauce is recommended for this recipe. It is important to choose a high-quality sauce that complements the flavors of the meat and cheese mixture.

By using these ingredients, anyone can prepare a delicious and satisfying meal of San Giorgio Stuffed Shells with meat.

Meat Preparation

To prepare the meat for San Giorgio stuffed shells recipe, there are a few steps to follow. First, gather the necessary ingredients: ground beef, ground pork, eggs, flavored dry breadcrumbs, shredded mozzarella cheese (optional), finely chopped onion, dried oregano leaves, and salt.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, eggs, breadcrumbs, mozzarella cheese, onion, oregano, and salt. Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined.

After mixing, take a handful of the meat mixture and form it into a ball. Then, flatten the ball into a patty that is about the same size and shape as the jumbo pasta shells. Repeat this process until all the meat mixture has been used.

Once the meat patties are prepared, they can be cooked in a frying pan over medium heat until they are browned on both sides and cooked through. Alternatively, the meat can be baked in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.

After cooking, the meat patties can be chopped into small pieces and mixed with the cheese filling for the stuffed shells. This will add a delicious and savory flavor to the dish, making it a perfect dinner option for any night of the week.

Pasta Preparation

Making San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat is a delicious and easy way to enjoy Italian cuisine. The pasta preparation is a crucial step in making this dish. Here are the steps to follow:

Boiling the Shells

To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes or until they are al dente. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Stuffing the Shells

While the shells are cooking, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, cooked ground beef, spinach, garlic, egg, fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are well combined.

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Take each shell and fill it with about 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese and meat mixture. Place the filled shells in the baking dish, making sure they are snugly arranged in a single layer.

Once all the shells are filled and placed in the dish, spread a generous layer of marinara sauce over the top of the shells. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

In conclusion, boiling the shells and stuffing them with the cheese and meat mixture are the two main steps in preparing San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat. Following these steps will ensure that the shells are cooked to perfection and the filling is deliciously flavorful.

Sauce Preparation

To make the perfect sauce for San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat, one must have the right ingredients and follow the correct steps. Here is a simple yet flavorful sauce recipe that pairs well with the stuffed shells.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
4. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Simply reheat the sauce before serving with the stuffed shells.

Baking the Stuffed Shells

Once the stuffed shells are assembled, it’s time to bake them to perfection. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to bake San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, arranging them in a single layer.
4. Cover the shells with another layer of pasta sauce, making sure each shell is coated.
5. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the shells.
7. Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let the shells cool for a few minutes before serving.

It’s important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of the shells. Check the shells regularly while baking to avoid overcooking or undercooking them.

Baking the stuffed shells is the final step in creating a delicious meal that is sure to impress. The melted cheese and savory meat filling make for a perfect comfort food that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Serving Suggestions

San Giorgio Stuffed Shells with Meat is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most out of this delicious recipe:

• Garlic Bread: Serve the stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread. This will complement the flavors of the dish and add a nice crunch to every bite.
• Salad: A fresh salad is a great way to balance out the richness of the stuffed shells. A simple Caesar salad or a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing would be a great choice.
• Italian Vegetables: To add more vegetables to the meal, consider serving roasted Italian vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant alongside the stuffed shells.
• Wine: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, would be a perfect pairing with the stuffed shells.
• Leftovers: If there are any leftovers, they can be reheated and served the next day. The flavors will have melded together even more, making for an even more delicious meal.

Overall, San Giorgio Stuffed Shells with Meat is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be served in many ways. With a few simple additions, it can be transformed into a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Related:

• Grilled Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Must-Try Recipe!

Storage and Reheating Tips

To ensure that the San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat remain fresh and tasty, proper storage is crucial. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.
• The stuffed shells can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• To freeze the stuffed shells, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents and store in the freezer for up to three months.

When it comes to reheating the stuffed shells, there are several methods to choose from. Here are some options:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and place the stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place the stuffed shells on a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place the stuffed shells in a saucepan and add a small amount of water or broth. Cover the pan and heat on medium-low until heated through, stirring occasionally.

It’s important to note that when reheating the stuffed shells, the internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure that they are safe to eat. Additionally, be sure to stir or flip the shells halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat, there are some common mistakes that one should avoid to ensure that the dish turns out perfectly. Here are some of the most common mistakes to watch out for:

Overcooking the Pasta Shells

One of the most common mistakes people make when making stuffed shells is overcooking the pasta shells. Overcooked shells can become too soft and can break apart when filled with the cheese and meat mixture. To avoid this, it is essential to follow the cooking instructions on the package carefully. Cook the shells until they are al dente, which means they are cooked but still firm to the bite.

Not Draining the Pasta Shells Properly

Another common mistake is not draining the pasta shells properly. If the shells are not drained well, they can become too wet, which can make the filling watery and the dish unappetizing. It is important to drain the shells thoroughly and let them cool before filling them with the cheese and meat mixture.

Using the Wrong Type of Cheese

Using the wrong type of cheese can also ruin the flavor and texture of the dish. Some people use cheddar cheese or other types of cheese that do not melt well, which can result in a lumpy and unappetizing dish. It is important to use the right type of cheese, such as ricotta cheese or mozzarella cheese, which melt well and give the dish a creamy texture.

Not Seasoning the Meat Mixture

Another common mistake is not seasoning the meat mixture properly. The meat mixture should be seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance the flavor of the dish. It is important to taste the meat mixture before filling the shells to ensure that it is properly seasoned.

By avoiding these common mistakes, one can make delicious San Giorgio stuffed shells with meat that are sure to impress.

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