Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering Italian delight that combines the savory flavors of bacon, beef, and a splash of beer! Our Bacon Beef and Beer Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they’re a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Imagine jumbo pasta shells filled to the brim with a rich, hearty mixture of seasoned beef, crispy bacon, and creamy ricotta, all smothered in marinara and gooey mozzarella cheese. With just 50 minutes of your time, you can serve up a dish that will impress family and friends alike. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup beer
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your stuffed shells cook evenly and are hot when served.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped cooked bacon to the skillet with the browned beef. Stir to combine and let them cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Pour in the beer and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef and bacon mixture with the ricotta cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. This will help prevent the shells from sticking and add flavor.
- Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef, bacon, and ricotta mixture. Place the filled shells in a single layer in the baking dish, open side up.
- Once all shells are filled and arranged in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring all shells are covered.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara sauce, covering the shells generously.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This will help the cheese melt and the flavors to meld.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to serve and help prevent burns.
- Serve the Bacon Beef and Beer Stuffed Shells warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the beef and bacon filling a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and assemble the stuffed shells when you're ready to bake.
- Cook the Pasta Perfectly: Be careful not to overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente since they will continue to cook in the oven. A little firmness will help them hold up when filled.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While ricotta and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to mix in other cheeses like parmesan or provolone for added flavor.
- Customize the Filling: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite ingredients to the filling! Chopped vegetables, different meats, or even spices can elevate the dish to your liking.
- Make it Saucy: If you love a saucier dish, feel free to add more marinara sauce on top before baking. This will keep the shells moist and flavorful.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving can add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
- Serve with Sides: Pair these stuffed shells with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian feast that your guests will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 140mg
