These easy slow cooker stuffed shells are filled with creamy cheese and hearty meat sauce, making dinner a breeze! Just layer everything and let the magic happen as it cooks.
I love how I can just toss all the ingredients in and relax while it cooks! Perfect for those busy days when you want something warm and tasty without the effort. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are essential for holding the creamy filling. If you can’t find them, try using manicotti or large conchiglie. They can also work well for stuffing!
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Both choices add great flavor. As a healthier option, you could swap in ground turkey or chicken. If you’re looking for a meatless dish, try using lentils or canned mushrooms for a tasty alternative.
Ricotta Cheese: This is what makes the filling creamy! If you’re dairy-free, look for cashew or almond ricotta. Cottage cheese can also work in a pinch, just blend it for a smoother texture.
Marinara Sauce: I love using homemade marinara, but store-bought works just fine. If you’re avoiding tomatoes, a jar of Alfredo sauce could switch things up nicely.
How Do You Stuff Pasta Shells Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing the shells may feel tricky, but here’s an easy way to keep it tidy. Use a spoon or a piping bag, which lets you control the amount of filling perfectly!
- Fill each shell carefully, ensuring not to overstuff, as they might split during cooking.
- Lay them gently in the slow cooker, seam side up, to keep them in place.
- Don’t worry—if they break, they’ll still taste amazing once cooked!
Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce (divided)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes of prep time along with 3 to 4 hours of cooking time on low (or 2 to 3 hours on high) in the slow cooker. It’s a great way to have a delicious meal without hovering over the stove!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside to cool. This step is important so they don’t fall apart while you stuff them!
2. Cooking the Meat:
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the minced garlic until fully cooked, making sure to drain any excess fat afterward. This keeps the dish from becoming too greasy and allows the flavors to shine!
3. Combine the Meat Sauce:
Now, stir 1 cup of marinara sauce into the cooked meat mixture. Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Set this delicious mixture aside while you prepare the cheese filling.
4. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything until well blended; this creamy filling is key to the stuffed shells!
5. Stuffing the Shells:
Time to stuff the shells! Use a spoon or piping bag to carefully fill each cooked shell with the cheese mixture. Be generous, but avoid overstuffing to prevent them from breaking.
6. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker. Then, arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce. Pour the meat sauce over the shells to cover them completely.
7. Add the Cheese Topping:
Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it cooks!
8. Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 3 to 4 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. It’s ready when everything is bubbly and heated through.
9. Serving Up:
Once done, grab some fresh basil or parsley for garnish if you like. Serve your stuffed shells with some extra marinara on the side, and enjoy your delightful, effortless dinner!
Enjoy your comforting slow cooker stuffed shells!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Stuffed Shells?
Yes! If you’re using frozen stuffed shells, there’s no need to thaw them before adding to the slow cooker. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they heat thoroughly.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth, or even a dairy-free ricotta made from cashews or tofu. Just make sure the consistency is creamy to keep the filling delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance, stuff the shells, and layer them with the sauce in the slow cooker. Just cover it and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, pop it into the slow cooker and add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time.
How to 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 in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can add a splash of marinara sauce to keep them moist!
