These Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells are a warm, cheesy delight filled with pasta and meat. The slow cooker makes everything super simple and flavorful, perfect for busy days!
Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic! I love how dinner turns into a cozy experience with very little effort. You might even want to double the recipe! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jumbo Pasta Shells: These create pockets for the filling. If you’re short on time or ingredients, regular pasta can work, but you’ll lose the stuffed effect.
Ground Beef: This is the go-to protein in the dish. Swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, use a mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach instead.
Ricotta Cheese: It’s creamy and essential for the filling texture. You can substitute cottage cheese for a lower-fat option, or use a plant-based ricotta if you’re vegan.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought sauce is quick and convenient. If you prefer homemade, just simmer chopped tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and a pinch of sugar for a fresh taste.
Cheeses (Mozzarella & Parmesan): These add flavor and richness. For a twist, try smoked mozzarella for a unique taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
How Do You Stuff Pasta Shells Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing pasta shells can be tricky, but with some tips, it becomes easy. Use a spoon or a pastry bag to fill them evenly. Don’t overfill; leave a little space to allow cheese to melt without spilling.
- Lay the shells on a large cutting board or plate for easy access while stuffing.
- Use a small spoon to scoop the filling into each shell, or cut a corner of a zip-top bag and pipe the mixture in.
- Don’t worry if they don’t look perfect! They’ll still taste great when cooked.
Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade meat sauce)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time, plus 3-4 hours of slow cooking. You’ll want to set aside some time to prepare the ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic. The end result? A hearty meal that’s just as easy to serve as it is to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until they are just al dente (still slightly firm). Once done, drain them and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
2. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet, so your dish isn’t greasy.
3. Mix the Meat Sauce:
Add half of the marinara sauce to the cooked meat mixture, stirring to combine. This will keep your meat nice and moist while adding flavor. Set aside this mixture while you prepare the cheese filling.
4. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, the egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Stir everything together until smoothly combined. This cheesy filling is what makes the stuffed shells irresistible!
5. Stuff the Pasta Shells:
Now comes the fun part! Gently stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or your fingers. Don’t worry if it gets a little messy—it’s all part of the process!
6. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Spray the base of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour a small half of the remaining marinara sauce over the bottom, creating a layer to help the shells cook evenly.
7. Arrange the Stuffed Shells:
Carefully arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the slow cooker. Once they’re all in, pour the remaining meat sauce evenly over the top.
8. Slow Cook Your Dish:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is melted and the pasta is tender. Try not to lift the lid too often; you want to keep that heat in!
9. Add Final Cheese Touches:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the shells. Cover again and let the cheese melt—this is the best part!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is melted and bubbly, it’s time to serve! Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you’d like, and enjoy your hearty, comforting meal while it’s warm!
This easy slow cooker stuffed shells with meat sauce will become a family favorite in no time. Happy cooking! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Jumbo Pasta Shells?
Absolutely! You can use frozen pasta shells without thawing them first. Just cook them according to the package instructions, and they should work perfectly. Just be sure to keep an eye on cooking time, as it might take a little longer to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with your favorite plant-based protein, such as lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute like Beyond Beef. You can also add plenty of veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well. Just make sure to cool them completely before freezing. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or place them in a covered dish in the oven until warmed through.
Can I Use Different Cheeses for the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to mix it up with different cheeses based on your preference. Cream cheese can add extra creaminess, and adding a bit of feta or goat cheese can enhance the flavor profile. Just keep the overall quantity the same for best results!
