These Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells are a warm hug in a bowl! Big pasta shells are filled with creamy cheese and topped with rich meat sauce, then cooked low and slow.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a no-fuss meal? Just assemble, set the slow cooker, and relax while it does all the work. Perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta Shells: Jumbo pasta shells are your best bet for stuffing. If you can’t find them, try using manicotti or even conchiglie (shells) as a fun alternative! Just remember, the cooking time may vary, so check the packaging.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Ground beef is a classic choice, but swapping in Italian sausage adds a nice kick. For a lighter option, go for ground turkey or chicken. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly!
Ricotta Cheese: If you’re looking for a lighter cheese option, cottage cheese can work in a pinch. Just blend it a bit to smooth out the texture. You could also use a dairy-free ricotta for a vegan twist.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought marinara for convenience, or whip up a homemade sauce if you have the time. No marinara? Try salsa for a different flavor profile! Just keep an eye on the spice level.
How Do I Get the Perfect Stuffed Shells?
Stuffing those shells doesn’t have to be a chore! Here’s some simple steps to make it easier. First, make sure the pasta is perfectly cooked—al dente is key, as it’ll continue cooking in the slow cooker.
- Let the shells cool slightly before handling. This helps prevent burns and makes stuffing easier.
- Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop for filling each shell. This cuts down on mess and ensures they’re filled evenly!
- Layer the stuffed shells in the slow cooker without overcrowding them, so they cook evenly.
With these tips, your stuffed shells will turn out deliciously cheesy and comforting every single time!
Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz/680g) marinara sauce or your favorite tomato pasta sauce
- 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of preparation time and can cook in the slow cooker for 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high. So, if you’re looking for an easy, hands-off meal, this is perfect for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente—this means they’ll be slightly firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain them and set aside to cool a bit so you can handle them easily.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir until the meat is browned and cooked through. Be sure to drain any excess fat afterward for a healthier dish.
3. Mix the Meat Sauce:
Add 1 cup of the marinara sauce into the meat mixture, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything, then remove it from the heat.
4. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix it until smooth, then season with a little more salt and pepper to taste. This cheesy mix is going to be the star of your stuffed shells!
5. Stuff the Shells:
Now it’s time to stuff! Take each pasta shell and carefully fill it with the cheese mixture. Arrange them in a single layer in your slow cooker to make sure they all get deliciously cooked.
6. Add Sauce:
Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Make sure they’re well-coated for that rich flavor!
7. Top with Meat Sauce:
Spoon the meat sauce mixture evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them well. This will help the flavors meld beautifully as it cooks.
8. Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top. Who doesn’t love extra cheese?
9. Cook It:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours, or on HIGH for 1.5-2 hours, until everything is bubbly and the cheese is melty.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like, and serve warm. Enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness of your stuffed shells!
This Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce is truly the perfect comforting dish! Gather your family, dig in, and enjoy a hearty meal together. 😊
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Jumbo Pasta Shells?
Absolutely! If using frozen shells, there’s no need to thaw them. Just cook according to package instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through before stuffing.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based grounds for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust your seasonings to match your chosen protein, especially if you use a more neutral-flavored meat!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells up to a day in advance! Just assemble everything and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. When cooking from the fridge, you may need to add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time on LOW.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can add a splash of marinara sauce if they seem a little dry!
