Sloppy Joe Stuffed Shells: A Delicious and Easy Dinner Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Carrot Cupcakes: Prepare to fall in love with the most delightful autumnal treat you’ll bake all season! Imagine the moist, tender crumb of a classic carrot cake, infused with the warm, comforting spices of pumpkin pie. It’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!).

While carrot cake itself has a surprisingly practical history – originating as a way to sweeten cakes during times when sugar was scarce – the addition of pumpkin spice is a more modern, distinctly American twist. It’s a celebration of fall flavors, bringing together the best of both worlds in one irresistible bite.

What makes these Pumpkin Spice Carrot Cupcakes so incredibly popular? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The moistness of the cake, the subtle crunch of walnuts (if you choose to add them!), and the creamy, tangy frosting create a symphony in your mouth. Plus, cupcakes are inherently convenient – perfectly portioned and easy to transport, making them ideal for bake sales, potlucks, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home. Get ready to experience a taste of autumn magic!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 (12 ounce) package jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can sloppy joe sauce (like Manwich)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt to taste
• Olive oil

Preparing the Meat Sauce

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of our Sloppy Joe Stuffed Shells – the flavorful meat sauce! This is where all the magic happens, and it’s surprisingly easy to put together. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing in no time!

1. Brown the Ground Beef: First, grab a large skillet or Dutch oven and drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil. Place it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. We want it nice and browned, so let it cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until there’s no pink left. Drain off any excess grease – nobody wants greasy Sloppy Joes!
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Now, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and the onion is translucent. This step is crucial because it builds a delicious flavor base for our sauce. Don’t rush it!
3. Add the Sauces and Seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce and Sloppy Joe sauce. Stir well to combine everything. Then, add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Give it another good stir to make sure all the seasonings are evenly distributed.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for at least 15 minutes, or even longer if you have the time. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and deepen. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. While it’s simmering, you can move on to preparing the shells and the cheese mixture.

Cooking the Pasta Shells

While the meat sauce is simmering away, let’s get those jumbo pasta shells cooked to perfection. We want them al dente – tender but still firm enough to hold their shape when we stuff them.

1. Boil the Water: Fill a large pot with water – about 4-5 quarts should do the trick. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. This seasons the pasta from the inside out. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Cook the Shells: Once the water is boiling, carefully add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook them according to the package directions, but subtract about 2 minutes from the recommended cooking time. We want them slightly undercooked because they’ll continue to cook in the oven. This usually means cooking them for about 8-10 minutes.
3. Drain and Rinse: When the shells are al dente, drain them immediately in a colander. Rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Gently toss them to remove any excess water.
4. Prevent Sticking: To prevent the shells from sticking together while you prepare the filling, you can drizzle them with a little olive oil and toss them gently. Set them aside until you’re ready to stuff them.

Preparing the Cheese Filling

Now for the creamy, cheesy goodness that will make these stuffed shells truly irresistible! This ricotta cheese mixture is so simple, but it adds a wonderful richness and texture to the dish.

1. Combine the Cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Add the Egg and Parsley: Add the lightly beaten egg and the chopped fresh parsley to the cheese mixture. The egg helps bind everything together, and the parsley adds a touch of freshness.
3. Season to Taste: Season the cheese mixture with a pinch of salt. Be careful not to over-salt, as the cheeses are already quite salty. Give everything a good mix until it’s well combined.

Assembling the Stuffed Shells

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Now comes the fun part – stuffing those shells with all that deliciousness we’ve been working on. Get ready to get your hands a little messy!

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
3. Stuff the Shells: Take a cooked pasta shell and carefully spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat sauce into the shell. Then, top the meat sauce with about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. You can use your fingers or a small spoon to help pack the filling in.
4. Arrange in the Dish: Place the stuffed shell in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining shells, meat sauce, and cheese mixture, arranging the stuffed shells in a single layer in the dish.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the stuffed shells. This will create a beautiful, bubbly, golden-brown topping.

Baking the Stuffed Shells

Almost there! Now it’s time to bake these beauties until they’re hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden brown. The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply divine!

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help keep the shells moist and prevent the cheese from burning. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent them from burning.
3. Let Rest: Once the stuffed shells are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes them easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

These Sloppy Joe Stuffed Shells are a complete meal on their own, but if you want to round out the meal, here are a few serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a perfect complement to the rich and savory stuffed shells.
• Garlic Bread: Who can resist a slice of warm, crusty garlic bread? It’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus would add a healthy and colorful touch to the meal.

Enjoy your Sloppy Joe Stuffed Shells! I hope you love them as much as I do. They’re a fun and delicious twist on a classic comfort food, and they’re sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Sloppy Joe Stuffed Shells are truly a weeknight dinner game-changer. I know, I know, stuffed shells might sound a little…involved. But trust me, this recipe streamlines the process without sacrificing any of that comforting, satisfying flavor we all crave. The combination of the sweet and savory Sloppy Joe filling nestled inside those perfectly cooked pasta shells, all blanketed in melted cheese, is simply irresistible. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even with picky eaters!

Why is this a must-try? Because it takes two classic comfort foods – Sloppy Joes and stuffed shells – and marries them into one glorious, easy-to-make dish. It’s a fun twist on the usual, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover Sloppy Joe meat (if you ever have any!). Plus, it’s surprisingly quick to assemble, especially if you prep the Sloppy Joe filling ahead of time. Think of it as a deconstructed Sloppy Joe, but elevated!

But the best part? The versatility! Feel free to get creative with your fillings and toppings.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Sloppy Joe mixture for a little kick.
* Veggie boost: Sneak in some finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms into the filling for extra nutrients.
* Cheese, please! Experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan would be delicious.
* Creamy dreamy: Mix a dollop of ricotta cheese into the Sloppy Joe filling for a richer, creamier texture.
* Toppings galore: Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
* Side dish superstars: Serve these shells with a simple side salad, steamed green beans, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
* Make it ahead: Assemble the shells ahead of time and bake them just before serving. This is perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. Just cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
* Freezer friendly: These shells freeze beautifully! Assemble them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

I truly believe that once you try this Sloppy Joe Stuffed Shells recipe, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and deliciousness.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. I’m confident you’ll love it as much as I do!

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations? Did you add your own special touch? Share your photos and comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, I’m always happy to help!