Craving a delicious Italian-inspired dish that doesn't compromise your health goals? Look no further! These Weight Watchers Freestyle Meatball Stuffed Shells are about to become your new obsession. Imagine perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells packed with savory ground beef and creamy ricotta, all smothered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella – and the best part? It's a guilt-free indulgence that will satisfy your comfort food cravings without breaking your diet plan!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly, arranging shells separately to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat and return meat to the pan.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the ground beef. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the browned ground beef. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta and beef mixture, filling them generously but not overpacking.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish, placing them seam-side up.
- Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is lightly covered.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells and sauce.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the shells to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: High-quality ground beef and fresh ricotta make a huge difference in flavor.
- Don't overcook the pasta shells: Cook them just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef thoroughly to keep the dish lighter and healthier.
- Space the shells carefully in the baking dish to ensure even cooking and sauce distribution.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the filling to set and make serving easier.
- For extra flavor, consider adding fresh basil or parsley as a garnish just before serving.
- If you're meal prepping, these shells can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
