These Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells are a dream come true! They are filled with cheesy goodness and smothered in a rich meat sauce that warms your heart.
I love tossing everything in the slow cooker; it makes dinner time feel like magic. Plus, the house smells amazing while they cook. Who wouldn’t want that? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are perfect for stuffing. If you can’t find them, large rigatoni or manicotti can work too, just adjust the cooking time.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is commonly used, but ground turkey or chicken can be leaner alternatives that taste great as well.
Cheese Mix: A blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan makes this dish creamy and cheesy. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese entirely!
Marinara Sauce: Use homemade, store-bought, or any sauce you love. A marinara with added veggies can boost flavor and nutrition. Spicy sauce can give it an extra kick.
Fresh Herbs: Using fresh basil or parsley at the end adds color and freshness to the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones work too, but add them earlier during cooking.
How Do You Cook Pasta Shells Perfectly?
Cooking pasta shells is key to ensure they hold up when stuffed and cooked again. Here’s how to do it right:
- Boil a large pot of salted water. This enhances the pasta’s flavor.
- Cook shells until al dente, usually 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. They’ll continue cooking in the slow cooker!
- Drain and cool them a bit before stuffing. This makes handling easier and prevents burns.
When stuffing, don’t overfill; leave some room for the filling to expand. This way, your shells won’t burst while cooking.
Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh basil or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and about 3 to 4 hours to cook in the slow cooker on low. It’s an easy, hands-off meal that gives you plenty of time to relax while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta Shells:
Start by boiling a large pot of water, adding a pinch of salt. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until they are al dente, which means they should be firm to the bite. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly so you can handle them comfortably.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef together with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Make sure to drain any excess fat after cooking. This part is key to keeping the dish from being too greasy!
3. Mix the Cheesy Filling:
In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture with ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, the egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
4. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker. Take each cooked pasta shell and stuff it with the ground beef and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells snugly in the slow cooker. Don’t worry if they are cramped; they will cook together beautifully!
5. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Once all the shells are in the slow cooker, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells to ensure they are fully covered. Then, sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top to create a cheesy layer.
6. Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know they’re done when the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top. The aroma will be divine!
7. Serve with Style:
When ready, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Serve these delicious stuffed shells warm, and dig into comfort food at its finest!
Enjoy your easy, comforting slow cooker stuffed shells with meat sauce!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm them gently on the stove. You may want to add a little extra marinara sauce to keep them moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the shells a day in advance. Just store the prepared shells in the fridge, covered. When you’re ready to cook, layer the sauce in the slow cooker and add the stuffed shells—no need to thaw!
What Should I Serve with Stuffed Shells?
These stuffed shells are great on their own, but for a complete meal, serve them with a side salad or garlic bread. Roasted vegetables can also complement the dish nicely, adding more color and nutrition!
