These Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells are a winner for dinner! Big pasta shells are filled with cheese and meat, all covered in a tasty sauce. Plus, they cook slowly for extra flavor.
Who knew dinner could be this simple? Just toss it all in the slow cooker, and it does the work while you relax. I love serving these with some crusty bread—perfect for mopping up that sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are perfect for holding all the goodness inside. If you can’t find jumbo shells, try using manicotti or even regular pasta like rigatoni or penne as a substitute. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Ground Beef: While ground beef adds a rich flavor, ground turkey or chicken is a great lower-fat option. For vegetarian stuffed shells, consider using lentils or mushrooms seasoned to mimic meat.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese gives a wonderful texture. If you’re lactose intolerant, try cottage cheese blended until smooth or a dairy-free ricotta made from nuts.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan provide that yummy melty factor. For a twist, mix in some cheddar or provolone. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan option full of cheesy flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade sauces elevate the dish. For a spicier kick, look for arrabbiata sauce or add red pepper flakes to your marinara.
How Do I Ensure My Stuffed Shells Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the shells properly is key to avoiding a mushy dish. Follow these steps for success:
- Boil the shells only until they are al dente; this means they’ll still have a tiny bit of bite. This helps them hold together during stuffing and cooking.
- Make sure to rinse the shells under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking process and prevents them from sticking together.
- Layer the stuffed shells properly in the slow cooker. Start with a bit of sauce on the bottom to keep them from sticking. This also helps with even cooking.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Cooking on low for the full time allows flavors to meld nicely and ensures the cheese is perfectly melted.
Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the slow cooker
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for prep and cook time, plus 3 to 4 hours in the slow cooker on low, or 2 to 3 hours on high. It’s an easy, hands-off dish perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta Shells:
Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This means they should still have a slight firmness to them. Once cooked, drain the shells and rinse them with cold water. Set them aside to cool.
2. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet. Next, stir in 1 cup of the marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, the egg, freshly chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined.
4. Grease the Slow Cooker:
Preheat your slow cooker by lightly spraying it with cooking spray or brushing it with oil to prevent sticking.
5. Stuff the Shells:
Fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
6. Add the Meat Sauce:
Spoon the cooked meat mixture evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
7. Layer the Marinara Sauce:
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Then, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.
8. Cook the Stuffed Shells:
Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when the sauce is bubbly and the cheese has melted perfectly.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
After cooking, let the stuffed shells sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps to set the layers a bit. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if you like, and serve warm with your favorite crusty bread!
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful slow cooker stuffed shells with hearty meat sauce!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Meat Sauce
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can also use canned lentils or beans for added protein.
What If I Don’t Have Jumbo Pasta Shells?
No problem! Manicotti is a great substitute, or you can use small shells or even rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose to ensure they don’t overcook.
Can I Prepare the Stuffed Shells Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare everything in advance! Stuff the shells and layer them in the slow cooker, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. If stored like this, cook time may need to be adjusted slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them gently in a pan on the stove, adding a splash of marinara if needed to keep them moist.
