These Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells are a delight! Big pasta shells are filled with creamy cheese and topped with tasty meat sauce, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Honestly, who can resist pasta stuffed with cheese? Plus, it’s super easy to make! Just fill the shells, layer them up, and let the slow cooker do all the hard work. Dinner is served! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are essential for holding all that delicious filling! If you can’t find jumbo shells, you can use manicotti, or any large pasta that can be stuffed.
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for less grease, but you can go for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try using beans, mushrooms, or lentils instead!
Ricotta Cheese: This gives the filling a creamy texture. If you’re out, cottage cheese works as a decent substitute. Add a bit of lemon juice for tanginess!
Marinara Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own. You can even spice it up by adding Italian herbs or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices. If you’re looking for lower-fat options, try part-skim mozzarella. Nutritional yeast can also be a great cheese substitute for a vegan option.
How Do I Stuff the Pasta Shells Easily?
Stuffing the shells might seem tricky, but here are a few tips to make it easier:
- Use a small spoon or a piping bag to fill the shells. A piping bag makes it super neat and quick!
- Don’t overfill—just enough to gently fit in the shell without spilling out.
- Lay them down in the slow cooker in a single layer for even cooking.
Remember to take your time! It’s worth it for that delicious cheesy goodness waiting at the end.
Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce and Cheese Layers:
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Other:
- Cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This amazing dish will take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 3-4 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. So, all in all, you will spend around 4 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta Shells:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re al dente. Drain them in a colander and let them cool down a bit while you prepare the meat sauce.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Drain any excess fat, then stir in 1 ½ cups of marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. After that, remove from heat.
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, the egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined—it should be creamy and delicious!
4. Fill the Shells:
Now for the fun part! Take a spoon and scoop a generous amount of the cheese mixture into each cooked shell. Take your time to fill them nicely, ensuring they’re packed with that cheesy goodness!
5. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Before placing the stuffed shells in the slow cooker, lightly spray the inside with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread about 1 cup of the remaining marinara sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker. Carefully place the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce.
6. Top with Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well covered. Then sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top for that melty finish.
7. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for about 3-4 hours. Keep an eye on it—the cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the shells will be heated through.
8. Serve:
Once it’s ready, garnish your delicious stuffed shells with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm, and they pair perfectly with a side salad or some garlic bread!
Enjoy a comforting, hearty Italian meal made effortlessly in your slow cooker!
FAQ about Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, consider using mushrooms, lentils, or even a mix of vegetables!
What Should I Do if I Have Leftover Filling?
If you have leftover cheese filling, don’t waste it! You can use it as a dip for crackers, spread on toast, or even mix it into scrambled eggs for a breakfast twist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells and meat sauce in advance. Just assemble everything in the slow cooker, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just set it in the slow cooker and add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of marinara sauce to keep it moist!
