Name: Cheesy Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 10 oz jumbo shells; 1 ½ pound ground beef or sausage; 1 small onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 15 oz can diced tomatoes, drained; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons yellow mustard; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded; ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ⅛ teaspoon pepper (adjust to taste); 8 oz can tomato sauce; ¼ cup beef broth, low-sodium; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (for topping); Shredded lettuce (for serving); Chopped fresh tomatoes (for serving); Diced pickles (for serving); Thousand Island dressing (for serving)

If you’re looking for a dinner that combines comfort food with a fun twist, Cheesy Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells is the perfect recipe for you! These jumbo pasta shells are filled with a hearty mixture of ground beef, spices, and plenty of cheese, all topped with a tangy tomato sauce. They capture the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a delightful and unexpected way. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into why cooks rave about it and how you can make it yourself!

Why Cooks Rave About It

The magic of Cheesy Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells lies in their incredible flavor and comforting texture. Home cooks love them because:

– They are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a great weeknight meal.
– The filling is versatile; you can easily swap ingredients for your preferences.
– They are a hit with both kids and adults, bringing everyone to the dinner table.
– Leftovers are just as delicious, making them perfect for meal prep.

The Essentials

Before you start cooking, gather these essential ingredients:

10 oz jumbo shells – the star of the dish!
1 ½ pound ground beef or sausage – for a rich, meaty filling.
1 small onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth.
4 cloves garlic, minced – for an aromatic kick.
15 oz can diced tomatoes, drained – provides moisture and flavor.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – enhances savory notes.
2 tablespoons yellow mustard – for that classic cheeseburger taste.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a lovely smokiness.
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded – the ultimate melty goodness.
½ teaspoon salt – adjust to taste.
⅛ teaspoon pepper – adjust to taste.
8 oz can tomato sauce – for a rich, tangy topping.
¼ cup beef broth, low-sodium – to keep things juicy.
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded – for topping.
Shredded lettuce – for a fresh crunch.
Chopped fresh tomatoes – for brightness.
Diced pickles – for that quintessential burger flavor.
Thousand Island dressing – an ideal finishing touch.

Before You Start: Equipment

Make sure you have the following tools ready for easy cooking:

Large pot – for boiling the jumbo shells.
Skillet – to cook the meat and vegetables.
Baking dish – to assemble and bake the stuffed shells.
Mixing bowl – for combining the filling ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy.
Wooden spoon – for stirring.

Cooking Cheesy Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells: The Process

Now it’s time to get cooking! Follow these steps for a successful dish:

Step 1: Cook the Jumbo Shells

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, being careful not to tear the shells.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3: Add Flavorings

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it cook for a few more minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Carefully fill each cooked shell with a generous amount of the meat and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, mix the tomato sauce and beef broth together. Pour this mixture evenly over the stuffed shells.

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the shells.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the stuffed shells for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 9: Serve with Toppings

Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly. Serve with shredded lettuce, chopped fresh tomatoes, diced pickles, and a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing for that authentic burger experience!

Smart Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Here are some smart substitutions:

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Make sure not to overcook the jumbo shells; they should still have a bit of firmness to hold the filling.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This recipe is easily doubled to serve a larger crowd, just use a bigger baking dish.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta shells.

Save It for Later

If you want to make Cheesy Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells ahead of time, here’s how:

Prepare the stuffed shells and sauce as instructed but do not bake them.
Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Alternatively, freeze unbaked stuffed shells for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reader Q&A

Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor and texture.

What should I serve with these stuffed shells?

A side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with Cheesy Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells. You can also serve them with some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even cooked lentils to maintain a hearty filling.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the filling or top your shells with spicy cheese for an extra kick.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve mastered Cheesy Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells, you might want to try your hand at these delectable dishes:

Cheesy Chicken Pesto Pasta – a creamy delight that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Pesto Chicken Mozzarella Stuffed Shells – another stuffed shell variation that’s bursting with flavor.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve created your own Cheesy Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells, it’s time to dig in and enjoy the fruits of your labor! This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a fun way to bring the family together around the dining table. Serve it up with your favorite toppings and watch as everyone goes back for seconds. Happy cooking!

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