Genise’s Soupy Lasagna Stuffed Shells are a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of lasagna with the ease of stuffed shells, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. The creamy, cheesy filling is nestled inside large pasta shells and baked in a savory tomato sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients for Genise’s Soupy Lasagna Stuffed Shells
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Genise’s Soupy Lasagna Stuffed Shells
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened.
- Season: Season the beef mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes (undrained) into the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Shells
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fill the shells: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- Stuff the shells: Spoon the cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell and place them in a single layer in a large baking dish.
- Pour sauce over: Pour the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the stuffed shells, covering them completely.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish: Remove the foil from the baking dish and garnish the stuffed shells with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot: Serve Genise’s Soupy Lasagna Stuffed Shells hot, with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Jumbo Pasta Shells
Jumbo pasta shells are used as the base for this stuffed shells recipe. They provide a sturdy and substantial vessel for the cheesy filling, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
Ground Beef
Ground beef adds a rich and savory flavor to the stuffed shells. It’s cooked with onions, garlic, and a blend of herbs to create a flavorful sauce that complements the cheesy filling.
Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese is creamy and slightly sweet, adding a luscious texture to the filling. It’s combined with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to create a cheesy, gooey interior for the stuffed shells.
Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce is used as the base for the tomato sauce in this recipe. It’s a simple and flavorful sauce made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. The addition of diced tomatoes adds texture and depth to the sauce.
Genise’s Soupy Lasagna Stuffed Shells are a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to please. Try it today and enjoy the delicious flavors of lasagna in a fun and easy-to-make dish!